EIR Volume 2PlaceWorks
June 18, 2014 | DraŌ EIR Volume II
General Plan Amendment, Housing Element Update,
and Associated Rezoning Draft EIR
for the City of CuperƟ no
State Clearinghouse No. 2014032007
June 18, 2014 | DraŌ EIR Volume II
General Plan Amendment, Housing Element Update,
and Associated Rezoning Draft EIR
for the City of CuperƟ no
State Clearinghouse No. 2014032007
Orange County • Northern California • Los Angeles/Downtown • Los Angeles/West • Inland Empire • San Diego
www.placeworks.com
In associaƟ on with:
BKF Engineering
Environmental CollaboraƟ ve
Hexagon TransportaƟ on Consultants
Tom Origer & Associates
1625 ShaƩ uck Avenue, Suite 300
Berkeley, California 94709
510.848.3815
Prepared by
PLACEWORKS i
Table of Contents Volume II
5. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT .............................................................................................. 5-1
5.1 NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE ............................................................................................................ 5.1-1
5.2 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A .............................................................................................................. 5.2-1
5.3 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B ............................................................................................................. 5.3-1
6. CEQA-REQUIRED ASSESSMENT CONCLUSIONS ........................................................................................... 6-1
6.1 IMPACTS FOUND NOT TO BE SIGNIFICANT ..................................................................................... 6-1
6.2 SIGNIFICANT UNAVOIDABLE EFFECTS ............................................................................................ 6-2
6.3 GROWTH-INDUCING IMPACTS ........................................................................................................... 6-8
6.4 SIGNIFICANT IRREVERSIBLE CHANGES ........................................................................................ 6-10
7. ORGANIZATIONS AND PERSONS CONSULTED .............................................................................................. 7-1
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 5.1-1 2040 Noise Contours – No Project Alternative ................................................................................ 5.1-111
Figure 5.2-1 2040 Noise Contours – Land Use Alternative A .............................................................................. 5.2-124
Figure 5.3-1 2040 Noise Contours – Land Use Alternative B ............................................................................. 5.3-127
LIST OF TABLES
Table 5-1 Alternatives Comparison Summary by Proposed New Development Allocations ................................. 5-2
Table 5-2 Alternatives Comparison Summary by Percentage Reduced from Proposed Project ........................... 5-3
Table 5-3 Alternatives Comparison Summary At 2040 Buildout ............................................................................ 5-3
Table 5-4 Alternatives Comparison Summary Percentage Reduced from Proposed Project at Buildout .............. 5-4
Table 5-5 Comparison of Impacts from Project Alternatives .................................................................................. 5-7
Table 5.1-1 No Project Alternative Development Allocation & Projections Summary ............................................ 5.1-1
Table 5.1-2 Special Centers/Other Areas – New Residential Unit Distribution ...................................................... 5.1-3
Table 5.1-3 Control Measures from the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan ............................................................... 5.1-13
Table 5.1-4 Comparison of the Change in Service Population and VMT for the No Project Alternative .............. 5.1-30
Table 5.1-5 Community-Wide Criteria Air Pollutants Generated by the No Project Alternative ........................... 5.1-32
Table 5.1-6 No Project Alternative Community Greenhouse Gas emissions Inventory ....................................... 5.1-70
Table 5.1-7 Groundborne Vibration Levels for Construction Equipment ........................................................... 5.1-103
Table 5.1-8 Increases to Ambient Noise Levels Along Major Roadway Segments – No Project Alternative ..... 5.1-107
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
TABLE OF CONTENTS VOLUME II
ii JUNE 18, 2014
Table 5.1-9 CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NOISE EMISSION LEVELS ....................................................... 5.1-114
Table 5.1-10 2040 No Project AM and PM Peak Hour Level of Service Results ................................................. 5.1-128
Table 5.1-11 VMT Per Capita .............................................................................................................................. 5.1-133
Table 5.1-12 VMT By Trip Orientation ................................................................................................................. 5.1-134
Table 5.1-13 Landfills Existing Capacity and Estimated Closure Date ................................................................ 5.1-148
Table 5.1-14 Projected Residents, Employment, and Waste Generation at 2040 Buildout
– No Project Alternative .................................................................................................................. 5.1-150
Table 5.1-15 Buildout and Regional Growth Comparison – No Project Alternative ............................................. 5.1-151
Table 5.2-1 Land Use Alternative A Development Allocation & Projections Summary ......................................... 5.2-1
Table 5.2-2 Control Measures from the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan ............................................................... 5.2-22
Table 5.2-3 Comparison of the Change in Service Population and VMT for Land Use Alternative A .................. 5.2-43
Table 5.2-4 Community-Wide Criteria Air Pollutants Generated by Land Use Alternative A ............................... 5.2-45
Table 5.2-5 Land Use Alternative A Community Greenhouse Gas emissions Inventory ..................................... 5.2-79
Table 5.2-6 Groundborne Vibration Levels For Construction Equipment ......................................................... 5.2-116
Table 5.2-7 Increases to Ambient Noise Levels Along Major Roadway Segments – Land Use Alternative A ... 5.2-121
Table 5.2-8 Construction Equipment Noise Emission Levels ............................................................................ 5.2-127
Table 5.2-9 Land Use Alternative A Estimated Population, Household, and Employment ................................ 5.2-132
Table 5.2-10 Land Use Alternative A Intersection Levels of Service Table .......................................................... 5.2-147
Table 5.2-11 Average Daily Traffic on Selected Roadway Segments Under Land Use Alternative A ................. 5.2-152
Table 5.2-12 Daily Freeway Segment Impact Analysis under Land Use Alternative A ........................................ 5.2-154
Table 5.2-13 VMT Per Capita .............................................................................................................................. 5.2-155
Table 5.2-14 VMT By Trip Orientation ................................................................................................................. 5.2-156
Table 5.2-15 Proposed Development in Cal Water and SJWC Service Areas .................................................... 5.2-161
Table 5.2-16 Projected Water Demand Cal Water LAS District + Land Use Alternative A (AFY) ....................... 5.2-162
Table 5.2-17 Demand and Supply Comparison – Normal Hydrologic Year: Cal Water LAS District + Land Use
Alternative A (AFY) ......................................................................................................................... 5.2-163
Table 5.2-18 Demand and Supply Comparison - One Dry Year: Cal Water LAS District
+ Land Use Alternative A (AFY) ...................................................................................................... 5.2-164
Table 5.2-19 Demand and Supply Comparison - Multiple Dry Year Period (4 Years): Cal Water LAS District
+ Land Use Alternative A (AFY) ...................................................................................................... 5.2-165
Table 5.2-20 Current and Projected SJWC Water Supply – Including Conservation (AFY) ................................ 5.2-166
Table 5.2-21 SJWC 2035 Supply and Demand -- Normal, Single-Dry, and Multiple-Dry Years (acre feet) ......... 5.2-167
Table 5.2-22 Landfills Existing Capacity and Estimated Closure Date ................................................................ 5.2-179
Table 5.2-23 Projected Residents, Employment, and Waste Generation at 2040 Buildout
– Land Use Alternative A ................................................................................................................ 5.2-180
Table 5.2-24 Buildout and Regional Growth Comparison – Land Use Alternative A ........................................... 5.2-182
Table 5.3-1 Land Use Alternative B Development Allocation & Projections Summary .......................................... 5.3-1
Table 5.3-2 Control Measures from the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan ............................................................... 5.3-26
Table 5.3-3 Comparison of the Change in Service Population and VMT for Land Use Alternative B .................. 5.3-47
Table 5.3-4 Community-Wide Criteria Air Pollutants Generated by Land Use Alternative B ............................... 5.3-49
Table 5.3-5 Land Use Alternative B Community GHG emissions Inventory ........................................................ 5.3-82
Table 5.3-6 Groundborne Vibration Levels For Construction Equipment .......................................................... 5.3-119
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
TABLE OF CONTENTS VOLUME II
PLACEWORKS iii
Table 5.3-7 Increases to Ambient Noise Levels Along Major Roadway Segments
– Land Use Alternative B ................................................................................................................ 5.3-123
Table 5.3-8 Construction Equipment Noise Emission Levels ............................................................................ 5.3-130
Table 5.3-9 Land Use Alternative B Estimated Population, Household, and Employment ................................ 5.3-135
Table 5.3-10 Land Use Alternative B Intersection Levels of Service Table .......................................................... 5.3-151
Table 5.3-11 Average Daily Traffic on Selected Roadway Segments – Land Use Alternative B ......................... 5.3-158
Table 5.3-12 Freeway Segment Impact Analysis under Land Use Alternative B ................................................. 5.3-160
Table 5.3-13 VMT Per Capita .............................................................................................................................. 5.3-161
Table 5.3-14 VMT By Trip Orientation ................................................................................................................. 5.3-162
Table 5.3-15 Proposed Development in Cal Water and SJWC Service Areas .................................................... 5.3-167
Table 5.3-16 Projected Water Demand Cal Water LAS District +Land Use Alternative B (AFY) ......................... 5.3-167
Table 5.3-17 Demand and Supply Comparison - Normal Hydrologic Year: Cal Water LAS District
+Land Use Alternative B (afy) ......................................................................................................... 5.3-168
Table 5.3-18 Demand and Supply Comparison - One Dry Year: Cal Water LAS District
+Land Use Alternative B (AFY) ....................................................................................................... 5.3-169
Table 5.3-19 Demand and Supply Comparison - Multiple Dry Year Period (4 Years): Cal Water LAS District
+ Land Use Alternative B (AFY) ...................................................................................................... 5.3-170
Table 5.3-20 Current and Projected SJWC Water Supply – Including Conservation (afy) .................................. 5.3-172
Table 5.3-21 SJWC 2035 Supply and Demand -- Normal, Single-Dry, and Multiple-Dry Years (acre feet) ......... 5.3-173
Table 5.3-22 Landfills Existing Capacity and Estimated Closure Date ................................................................ 5.3-186
Table 5.3-23 Projected Residents, Employment, and Waste Generation at 2040 Buildout
– Land Use Alternative B ................................................................................................................ 5.3-187
Table 5.3-24 Buildout and Regional Growth Comparison – Land Use Alternative B ........................................... 5.3-189
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
TABLE OF CONTENTS VOLUME II
iv JUNE 18, 2014
PLACEWORKS 5-1
5. Alternatives to the Proposed Project
INTRODUCTION
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines set forth the intent and extent of alternatives
analysis to be provided in an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Section 15126.6(a) of the CEQA
Guidelines states that:
An EIR shall describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or the location of the project, which would
feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant
effects of the project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives. An EIR need not consider every
conceivable alternative to a project. Rather it must consider a reasonable range of potentially feasible alternatives
that will foster informed decision making and public participation. An EIR is not required to consider alternatives
which are infeasible. The lead agency is responsible for selecting a range of project alternatives for examination and
must publicly disclose its reasoning for selecting those alternatives. There is no ironclad rule governing the nature or
scope of the alternatives to be discussed other than the rule of reason.
The following discussion is intended to inform the public and decision makers of feasible alternatives to the
proposed Project that would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project. This
chapter describes the purpose of the alternatives discussion; provides a summary of the reasonable range of
alternatives, including a summary of potentially significant impacts and the relationship of each alternative
to the Project objectives; and identifies the environmentally superior alternative. This chapter of this Draft
EIR also contains the following three sub-chapters:
Chapter 5.1, No Project Alternative
Chapter 5.2, General Plan Land Use Alternative A
Chapter 5.3, General Plan Land Use Alternative B
Each sub-chapter provides a project description for each alternative, followed by an analysis of the potential
direct, indirect and cumulative environmental impacts that could result from buildout under that alternative,
including a determination of the level of significance of the potential environmental impacts that would
occur based on the proposed Project Components under the specific alternative. In addition, each sub-
chapter provides a discussion of how each alternative meets or fails to meet the project objectives. The
existing baseline for each of these analyses would be the same as what is discussed throughout Chapter 3,
Project Description, of this Draft EIR for the proposed Project. For existing conditions information, please
refer to Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR.
SELECTION OF A REASONABLE RANGE OF ALTERNATIVES
As stated above, the range of potential alternatives to the proposed Project shall include those that could
feasibly accomplish most of the basic objectives of the project and could avoid or substantially lessen one or
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
5-2 JUNE 18, 2014
more of the significant effects of the proposed Project. The following discussion describes the rationale for
selecting the alternatives to be discussed in this chapter.
OVERVIEW OF SELECTED ALTERNATIVES
Three project alternatives were evaluated in in this Draft EIR. As previously stated the alternatives were
developed to provide a range of development scenarios reflecting differences in development type and
density within the Project Component locations; thereby, potentially reducing identified significant impacts
of the proposed Project. The first alternative discussed in Chapter 5.1 is the CEQA-required No Project
Alternative. The second and third alternatives, discussed in Chapters 5.2 and 5.3, present reduced density
and intensity growth scenarios compared to the proposed Project but within the same land use patterns.
The proposed development allocations under each alternative, as well as the proposed Project, are provided
in Table 5-1. As shown in Table 5-1, under each alternative, the City would have adequate capacity to
accommodate the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for the 2014–2022 planning period and
meet its fair share housing obligation of 1,064 units under all of the alternatives. The estimated buildout of
each alternative is provided in Table 5-2.
TABLE 5‐1 ALTERNATIVES COMPARISON SUMMARY BY PROPOSED NEW DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATIONS
Category
Proposed
Projecta
No
Projectb
Land Use
Alternative A
Land Use
Alternative B
Office 4,040,231 sf 540,231 sf 1,040,231 sf 2,540,231 sf
Commercial 1,343,679 sf 701,413 sf 701,413 sf 1,343,679 sf
Hotel 1,339 rooms 339 rooms 600 rooms 839 rooms
Residential 4,421 units 1,895 units 1,895 units 3,316 units
Population 12,998c 5,571e 5,571g 9,749i
Jobs 16,855d 3,461f 5,206h 11,705j
Notes: sf = square feet
a. The proposed Project represents General Plan Land Use Alternative C that was presented at Planning Commission and City Council hearings
during the planning process.
b. No Project represents remaining development allocation under the existing 2000‐2020 General Plan.
c. Population is calculated by 4,421 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
d. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 4,040,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square feet equals
13,467 jobs; 1,343,679 square feet of commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 2,986 jobs; and 1,339 hotel rooms at .3 jobs per
room equals 402 jobs for a total of 16,855 jobs.
e. Population is calculated by 1,895 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
f. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 540,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square feet equals
1,801 jobs; 701,413 square feet of commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 1,559 jobs; and 339 hotel rooms at .3 jobs per room
equals 101 jobs for a total of 3,461 jobs.
g. Population is calculated by 1,895 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
h. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 1,040,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square feet equals
3,467 jobs; 701,431 square feet of commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 1,559 jobs; and 600 hotel rooms at .3 jobs per room
equals 180 jobs for a total of 5,206 jobs.
i. Population is calculated by 3,316 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
j. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 2,540,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square feet equals
8,467 jobs; 1,343,670 square feet of commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 2,986 jobs; and 839 hotel rooms at .3 jobs per room
equals 252 jobs for a total of 11,705 jobs.
Source: City of Cupertino, 2014.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
PLACEWORKS 5-3
TABLE 5‐2 ALTERNATIVES COMPARISON SUMMARY BY PERCENTAGE REDUCED FROM PROPOSED PROJECT
Category
Proposed
Projecta
No
Projectb
Land Use
Alternative A
Land Use
Alternative B
Office 4,040,231 sf 87% less 74% less 37% less
Commercial 1,343,679 sf 48% less 48% less No Change
Hotel 1,339 rooms 75% less 55% less 37% less
Residential 4,421 units 57% less 57% less 25% less
Population 12,998 57% less 57% less 25% less
Jobs 16,855 79% less 69% less 30% less
Note: sf = square feet
a. The proposed Project represents General Plan Land Use Alternative C that was presented at Planning Commission and City Council hearings
during the planning process.
b. No Project represents buildout scenario under current 2000‐2020 General Plan.
Source: City of Cupertino, 2014.
As shown in Table 5-2, when compared to the proposed Project, the No Project Alternative represents
substantially less overall development. Land Use Alternative A generally represents about half of the
proposed Project development allocations with the exception of office space, which is 74 percent less.
Population and jobs under the Land Use Alternative A are close to 60 and 70 percent less, respectively. Land
Use Alternative B represents the second largest buildout scenario with only 37 percent less office space and
hotel rooms, and the same amount of commercial development allocation as the proposed Project. Land
Use Alternative B would result in 25 percent fewer new residential units and, a corresponding reduction in
population growth. The 2040 buildout for each alter native is calculated by adding the total new
development allocations, population, and jobs shown in Table 5-1 for each alternative to the existing 2013
conditions. The estimated 2040 buildout of each alternative is provided in Table 5-3. As shown, each
alternative is incrementally reduced from the proposed Project.
TABLE 5‐3 ALTERNATIVES COMPARISON SUMMARY AT 2040 BUILDOUT
Category
Existing 2013
Built/Approved
Proposed
Projecta
No
Projectb
Land Use
Alternative A
Land Use
Alternative B
Office 8,929,774 sf 12,970,005 sf 9,470,005 sf 9,970,005 sf 11,470,005 sf
Commercial 3,729,569 sf 5,073,248 sf 4,430,982 sf 4,430,982 sf 5,073,248 sf
Hotel 1,090 rooms 2,429 rooms 1,429 rooms 1,690 rooms 1,929 rooms
Residential 21,399 units 25,820 units 23,294 units 23,294 units 24,715 units
Population 58,302 71,300 63,873 63,873 68,051
Jobs 21,399 44,242 30,848 32,593 39,092
Note: sf = square feet
a. The proposed Project represents General Plan Land Use Alternative C that was presented at Planning Commission and City Council hearings during the
planning process.
b. No Project represents buildout scenario under existing 2000‐2020 General Plan.
Source: City of Cupertino, 2014.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
5-4 JUNE 18, 2014
Table 5-4 illustrates the relationship of each alternative in terms of percentage reduced when compared to
the proposed Project at 2040 buildout. As shown, the No Project and Land Use A alternatives result in
similar buildout reductions from the proposed Project, while Land Use B results in a slight reduction when
compared to the proposed Project.
TABLE 5‐4 ALTERNATIVES COMPARISON SUMMARY PERCENTAGE REDUCED FROM PROPOSED PROJECT AT BUILDOUT
Category
Proposed
Projecta
No
Projectb
Land Use
Alternative A
Land Use
Alternative B
Office 12,970,005 sf 27% less 23% less 12% less
Commercial 5,073,248 sf 13% less 13% less No Change
Hotel 2,429 rooms 41% less 30% less 21% less
Residential 25,820 units 10% less 10% less 5% less
Population 71,300 10% less 10% less 5% less
Jobs 44,242 30% less 26% less 12% less
Note: sf = square feet
a. The proposed Project represents General Plan Land Use Alternative C that was presented at Planning Commission and City Council hearings
during the planning process.
b. No Project represents buildout scenario under current 2000‐2020 General Plan.
Source: City of Cupertino, 2014.
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(1), the No Project Alternative is required as part of the
“reasonable range of alternatives” to allow decision makers to compare the impacts of approving the
proposed Project with the impacts of taking no action or not approving the proposed Project. Under this
Alternative, growth and development would continue to occur under the provisions of the current 2000-
2020 General Plan, including the development allocations for office and commercial space, and hotel and
residential unit allocations. Thus, no new development potential beyond what is currently permitted in the
2000-2020 General Plan would occur. As shown in Table 5-2, Compared to the proposed Project,
development under the No Project Alternative would allocate 87 percent less office space, 48 percent less
commercial space, 75 percent fewer hotel rooms, 57 percent fewer residential units resulting in lower
population projections, 79 percent fewer new jobs compared to the proposed Project. As a result, as shown
in Table 5-4, when compared to the proposed Project at 2040 buildout, the No Project Alternative would
result in 27 percent less office space, 13 percent less commercial space, 41 percent fewer hotel rooms, 10
percent fewer residential units and new residents, and 30 percent fewer new jobs.
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
This Alternative would reduce the total amount of the increased development allocations compared to the
proposed Project. As shown in Table 5-1, the office and hotel allocations increases would be reduced
compared to the proposed Project and no new commercial space or residential unit allocation would be
permitted beyond what is currently approved in the current General Plan. In addition, no maximum height
increases are proposed under this alternative. As shown in Table 5-2, Land Use Alternative A would allocate
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
PLACEWORKS 5-5
74 percent less office space, 48 percent less commercial space, 55 percent fewer hotel rooms, and 57
percent fewer residential units resulting in lower population projections. As a result, as shown in Table 5-4,
when compared to the proposed Project at 2040 buildout out, Land Use Alternative A would result in 23
percent less office space, 13 percent less commercial space, 30 percent fewer hotel rooms, 10 percent fewer
residential units and new population, and 26 percent fewer jobs.
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
This Alternative would reduce the total amount of the increased development allocations compared to the
proposed Project, but not to the same extent as Alternative A. As shown in Table 5-1, the office space, hotel
rooms and residential units allocations increases would be reduced, and the increase in the commercial space
allocation would be the same as the proposed Project. Under this Alternative, the proposed maximum
height limits are lower than those of the proposed Project. As shown in Table 5-2, Land Use Alternative B
would allocate 37 percent less office space, 37 percent fewer hotel rooms, 25 percent fewer residential
units, and with no change in allocation for commercial space. There would be 25 percent fewer residential
units resulting in lower population projections. As a result, as shown in Table 5-4, when compared to the
proposed Project at 2040 buildout out, Land Use Alternative B would result in 12 percent less office space,
no change in commercial space, 21 percent fewer hotel rooms, 5 percent fewer residential units and new
residents, and 12 percent fewer jobs.
COMPARISON OF IMPACTS FROM PROJECT ALTERNATIVES
The analysis in the following sub-chapters (5.1 to 5.3) identifies the potential significant environmental
impacts of the Alternatives for each of the environmental topics analyzed in detail in Chapter 4,
Environmental Evaluation, of this Draft EIR. However, the Environmental Setting and Existing Conditions
are cross-referenced but are not repeated in full in these sub-chapters.
Although shown as hard metrics, for comparative purposes the differences in growth and development
between the proposed Project and the Alternatives would be gradual over the 26-year buildout horizon of
the General Plan. Even if no action was taken, regional growth, and the associated environmental effects
linked to this growth, would continue to occur under the provisions of the current 2000-2020 General Plan.
Future growth under all of the land use alternatives would come incrementally over approximately 26 years
and would be guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of the principal goals and
objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area, which concentrates new development
within infill sites and near major transportation corridors.
Each of the Alternatives were analyzed quantitatively independent of the proposed Project. As shown in
Table 5-5, the impact significance conclusion associated with each of the four land use alternatives analyzed
in this EIR would essentially be the same. This is because the recommended mitigation measures in this EIR
would apply to all alternatives. Furthermore, compliance with mandatory federal, State and local
regulations, including both existing and proposed General Plan policies, designed to reduce environmental
impacts would also apply to all future development in Cupertino. However, as shown in Table 5-5, future
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
5-6 JUNE 18, 2014
development under Land Use Alternative B would result in a less-than-significant conclusion under Impact
AQ-1, whereas the other three alternatives were found to be significant and unavoidable.
Under Impact-AQ-1, Land Use Alternative B would be consistent with the Bay Area Air Quality
Management District’s (BAAQMD) 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan based on the outcome of the vehicles
miles traveled (VMT) analysis.1 Citywide VMT estimates derived from the assumed 2040 land use scenarios
for each Alternative and the proposed Project were calculated by Hexagon Transportation Consultants, using
the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) model. As described under Section 4.13.2.1,
Regulatory Setting, in Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, the VTA countywide travel demand model
is used to help evaluate cumulative air quality, noise and transportation impacts of local land use decisions
on the VTA Congestion Management Program system, which is a regional program that describes the
strategies to reduce traffic congestion, and improve land use decision-making. The VMT estimates in the VTA
model are sensitive to changes in land use. Generally, land uses that reflect a more balanced jobs-housing
ratio in the VTA model result in lower per capita VMT. The VMT to air quality impacts are discussed in detail
under Impact AQ-1 for the proposed Project and each alternative in their respective chapters. As outlined in
these discussions, the BAAQMD’s 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan requires that the VMT increase be less than
or equal to the projected population increase and of the proposed Project. Under Land Use Alternative B,
daily VMT in the Project Study Area would increase at a slower rate (22.3 percent) between 2013 and 2040
than would the service population of the Project Study Area (25.0 percent). Whereas in the Proposed
Project, daily VMT would increase at a slightly greater rate (40.9 percent) between 2013 and 2040 than
would the service population of the Project Study Area (34.8 percent). Under the No Project, daily VMT in
the Project Study Area would increase at a greater rate (11.1 percent) between 2013 and 2040 than would
the service population of the Project Study Area (10.5 percent). Under Land Use Alternative A, the daily
VMT in the Project Study Area would increase at a greater rate (18.5 percent) between 2013 and 2040 than
would the service population of the Project Study Area (12.6 percent).
In comparing the three Alternatives to the proposed Project, differences vary with each alternative. The
potential impacts of future development under as the No Project Alternative are substantially less than the
proposed Project. Land Use Alternative A are slightly less and impacts from Land Use Alternative B are
moderately less than impacts from the proposed Project. This is because each alternative represents an
incremental reduction in development allocations, population and jobs when compared to the proposed
Project, which represents the greatest amount of development resulting in higher consumption of non-
renewable resources, generating the greatest amount of waste and pollutants, and increasing the demand of
public facilities and infrastructure.
1 The vehicles miles traveled (VMT) refers to Cupertino trips multiplied by the trip distances. See Section 4.13.4.9 in Chapter 4.13,
Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR.
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n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
Le
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
W
i
t
h
M
i
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
a
n
d
U
n
a
v
o
i
d
a
b
l
e
In
d
i
c
a
t
e
s
d
i
f
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
i
n
s
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
c
e
f
i
n
d
i
n
g
.
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5-7
TAB
L
E
5‐5
COM
P
A
R
I
S
O
N
OF
IMP
A
C
T
S
FR
O
M
PRO
J
E
C
T
ALT
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
To
p
i
c
Pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A
Land Use Alternative B
AE
S
T
H
E
T
I
C
S
AE
S
‐1:
Ha
v
e
a su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ef
f
e
c
t
on
a sc
e
n
i
c
vi
s
t
a
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
AE
S
‐2:
Su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
da
m
a
g
e
sc
e
n
i
c
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
,
bu
t
no
t
li
m
i
t
e
d
to
,
tr
e
e
s
,
ro
c
k
ou
t
c
r
o
p
p
i
n
g
s
,
an
d
hi
s
t
o
r
i
c
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
wi
t
h
i
n
a
st
a
t
e
sc
e
n
i
c
hi
g
h
w
a
y
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
AE
S
‐3:
Su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
de
g
r
a
d
e
th
e
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
vi
s
u
a
l
ch
a
r
a
c
t
e
r
or
qu
a
l
i
t
y
of
th
e
si
t
e
an
d
it
s
su
r
r
o
u
n
d
i
n
g
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
AE
S
‐4:
Cr
e
a
t
e
a ne
w
so
u
r
c
e
of
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
li
g
h
t
or
gl
a
r
e
wh
i
c
h
wo
u
l
d
ad
v
e
r
s
e
l
y
af
f
e
c
t
da
y
or
ni
g
h
t
t
i
m
e
vi
e
w
s
in
th
e
ar
e
a
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
AE
S
‐5:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
vi
s
u
a
l
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
AI
R
QU
A
L
I
T
Y
AQ
‐1:
Co
n
f
l
i
c
t
wi
t
h
or
ob
s
t
r
u
c
t
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
pl
a
n
.
SU
SU
SU
LTS
AQ
‐2:
Vi
o
l
a
t
e
an
y
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
or
co
n
t
r
i
b
u
t
e
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
to
an
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
or
pr
o
j
e
c
t
e
d
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
vi
o
l
a
t
i
o
n
.
SU
SU
SU
SU
AQ
‐3:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
a cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
l
y
co
n
s
i
d
e
r
a
b
l
e
ne
t
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
of
an
y
cr
i
t
e
r
i
a
po
l
l
u
t
a
n
t
fo
r
wh
i
c
h
th
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
re
g
i
o
n
is
no
n
‐at
t
a
i
n
m
e
n
t
un
d
e
r
an
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
fe
d
e
r
a
l
or
St
a
t
e
am
b
i
e
n
t
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
(i
n
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
re
l
e
a
s
i
n
g
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
wh
i
c
h
ex
c
e
e
d
qu
a
n
t
i
t
a
t
i
v
e
th
r
e
s
h
o
l
d
s
fo
r
oz
o
n
e
pr
e
c
u
r
s
o
r
s
)
.
SU
SU
SU
SU
AQ
‐4:
Ex
p
o
s
e
se
n
s
i
t
i
v
e
re
c
e
p
t
o
r
s
to
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
po
l
l
u
t
a
n
t
co
n
c
e
n
t
r
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LTS/M
AQ
‐5:
Cr
e
a
t
e
ob
j
e
c
t
i
o
n
a
b
l
e
od
o
r
s
af
f
e
c
t
i
n
g
a su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
nu
m
b
e
r
of
pe
o
p
l
e
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
AQ
‐6:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
.
SU
SU
SU
SU
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
AL
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
T
O
T
H
E
P
R
O
P
O
S
E
D
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
LT
S
LT
S
/
M
SU
L
e
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
Le
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
W
i
t
h
M
i
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
a
n
d
U
n
a
v
o
i
d
a
b
l
e
5-
8
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5‐5
COM
P
A
R
I
S
O
N
OF
IMP
A
C
T
S
FR
O
M
PRO
J
E
C
T
ALT
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
To
p
i
c
Pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A
Land Use Alternative B
BI
O
L
O
G
I
C
A
L
RE
S
O
U
R
C
E
S
BI
O
‐1:
Ha
v
e
a su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ef
f
e
c
t
,
ei
t
h
e
r
di
r
e
c
t
l
y
or
th
r
o
u
g
h
ha
b
i
t
a
t
mo
d
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
on
an
y
sp
e
c
i
e
s
id
e
n
t
i
f
i
e
d
as
a ca
n
d
i
d
a
t
e
,
se
n
s
i
t
i
v
e
,
or
sp
e
c
i
a
l
st
a
t
u
s
sp
e
c
i
e
s
in
lo
c
a
l
or
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
pl
a
n
s
,
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
,
or
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
or
by
th
e
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
De
p
a
r
t
m
e
n
t
of
Fi
s
h
an
d
Wi
l
d
l
i
f
e
or
U.
S
.
Fi
s
h
an
d
Wi
l
d
l
i
f
e
Se
r
v
i
c
e
.
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LTS/M
BI
O
‐2:
Ha
v
e
a su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ef
f
e
c
t
on
an
y
ri
p
a
r
i
a
n
ha
b
i
t
a
t
or
ot
h
e
r
se
n
s
i
t
i
v
e
na
t
u
r
a
l
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
id
e
n
t
i
f
i
e
d
in
lo
c
a
l
or
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
pl
a
n
s
,
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
,
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
or
by
th
e
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
De
p
a
r
t
m
e
n
t
of
Fi
s
h
an
d
Wi
l
d
l
i
f
e
or
U.
S
.
Fi
s
h
an
d
Wi
l
d
l
i
f
e
Se
r
v
i
c
e
.
No
im
p
a
c
t
No
im
p
a
c
t
No
im
p
a
c
t
No impact
BI
O
‐3:
Ha
v
e
a su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ef
f
e
c
t
on
fe
d
e
r
a
l
l
y
pr
o
t
e
c
t
e
d
we
t
l
a
n
d
s
as
de
f
i
n
e
d
by
Se
c
t
i
o
n
40
4
of
th
e
Cl
e
a
n
Wa
t
e
r
Ac
t
(i
n
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
,
bu
t
no
t
li
m
i
t
e
d
to
,
ma
r
s
h
,
ve
r
n
a
l
po
o
l
,
co
a
s
t
a
l
,
et
c
.
)
th
r
o
u
g
h
di
r
e
c
t
re
m
o
v
a
l
,
fi
l
l
i
n
g
,
hy
d
r
o
l
o
g
i
c
a
l
in
t
e
r
r
u
p
t
i
o
n
,
or
ot
h
e
r
me
a
n
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
BI
O
‐4:
In
t
e
r
f
e
r
e
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
wi
t
h
th
e
mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
of
an
y
na
t
i
v
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
or
mi
g
r
a
t
o
r
y
fi
s
h
or
wi
l
d
l
i
f
e
sp
e
c
i
e
s
or
wi
t
h
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
na
t
i
v
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
or
mi
g
r
a
t
o
r
y
wi
l
d
l
i
f
e
co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
,
or
im
p
e
d
e
th
e
us
e
of
na
t
i
v
e
wi
l
d
l
i
f
e
nu
r
s
e
r
y
si
t
e
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
BI
O
‐5:
Co
n
f
l
i
c
t
wi
t
h
an
y
lo
c
a
l
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
or
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
s
pr
o
t
e
c
t
i
n
g
bi
o
l
o
g
i
c
a
l
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
,
su
c
h
as
a tr
e
e
pr
e
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
po
l
i
c
y
or
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
BI
O
‐6:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
bi
o
l
o
g
i
c
a
l
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
.
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LTS/M
CU
L
T
U
R
A
L
RE
S
O
U
R
C
E
S
CU
L
T
‐1:
Ca
u
s
e
a su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ch
a
n
g
e
in
th
e
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
c
e
of
a
hi
s
t
o
r
i
c
a
l
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
as
de
f
i
n
e
d
in
Se
c
t
i
o
n
15
0
6
4
.
5
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
CU
L
T
‐2:
Ca
u
s
e
a su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ch
a
n
g
e
in
th
e
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
c
e
of
an
ar
c
h
a
e
o
l
o
g
i
c
a
l
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
pu
r
s
u
a
n
t
to
Se
c
t
i
o
n
15
0
6
4
.
5
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
CU
L
T
‐3:
Di
r
e
c
t
l
y
or
in
d
i
r
e
c
t
l
y
de
s
t
r
o
y
a un
i
q
u
e
pa
l
e
o
n
t
o
l
o
g
i
c
a
l
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
or
si
t
e
or
un
i
q
u
e
ge
o
l
o
g
i
c
fe
a
t
u
r
e
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
CU
L
T
‐4:
Di
s
t
u
r
b
an
y
hu
m
a
n
re
m
a
i
n
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
th
o
s
e
in
t
e
r
r
e
d
ou
t
s
i
d
e
of
fo
r
m
a
l
ce
m
e
t
e
r
i
e
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
AL
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
T
O
T
H
E
P
R
O
P
O
S
E
D
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
LT
S
LT
S
/
M
SU
Bo
l
d
H
i
g
h
l
i
g
h
t
L
e
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
Le
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
W
i
t
h
M
i
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
a
n
d
U
n
a
v
o
i
d
a
b
l
e
In
d
i
c
a
t
e
s
d
i
f
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
i
n
s
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
c
e
f
i
n
d
i
n
g
.
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5-9
TAB
L
E
5‐5
COM
P
A
R
I
S
O
N
OF
IMP
A
C
T
S
FR
O
M
PRO
J
E
C
T
ALT
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
To
p
i
c
Pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A
Land Use Alternative B
CU
L
T
‐5:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
cu
l
t
u
r
a
l
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
O
L
O
G
Y
,
SO
I
L
S
,
AN
D
MI
N
E
R
A
L
RE
S
O
U
R
C
E
S
GE
O
‐1:
Ex
p
o
s
e
pe
o
p
l
e
or
st
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
s
to
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ef
f
e
c
t
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
th
e
ri
s
k
of
lo
s
s
,
in
j
u
r
y
,
or
de
a
t
h
in
v
o
l
v
i
n
g
:
i)
Ru
p
t
u
r
e
of
a
kn
o
w
n
ea
r
t
h
q
u
a
k
e
fa
u
l
t
,
as
de
l
i
n
e
a
t
e
d
on
th
e
mo
s
t
re
c
e
n
t
Al
q
u
i
s
t
‐Pr
i
o
l
o
Ea
r
t
h
q
u
a
k
e
Fa
u
l
t
Zo
n
i
n
g
Ma
p
is
s
u
e
d
by
th
e
St
a
t
e
Ge
o
l
o
g
i
s
t
fo
r
th
e
ar
e
a
or
ba
s
e
d
on
ot
h
e
r
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ev
i
d
e
n
c
e
of
a
kn
o
w
n
fa
u
l
t
.
Re
f
e
r
to
Di
v
i
s
i
o
n
of
Mi
n
e
s
an
d
Ge
o
l
o
g
y
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Pu
b
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
42
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
ii
)
St
r
o
n
g
se
i
s
m
i
c
gr
o
u
n
d
sh
a
k
i
n
g
.
ii
i
)
Se
i
s
m
i
c
‐re
l
a
t
e
d
gr
o
u
n
d
fa
i
l
u
r
e
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
li
q
u
e
f
a
c
t
i
o
n
.
iv
)
La
n
d
s
l
i
d
e
s
.
GE
O
‐2:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
so
i
l
er
o
s
i
o
n
or
th
e
lo
s
s
of
to
p
s
o
i
l
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
O
‐3:
Be
lo
c
a
t
e
d
on
a ge
o
l
o
g
i
c
un
i
t
or
so
i
l
th
a
t
is
un
s
t
a
b
l
e
,
or
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
be
c
o
m
e
un
s
t
a
b
l
e
as
a re
s
u
l
t
of
th
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
,
an
d
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
re
s
u
l
t
in
on
‐
or
of
f
‐si
t
e
la
n
d
s
l
i
d
e
,
la
t
e
r
a
l
sp
r
e
a
d
i
n
g
,
su
b
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
,
li
q
u
e
f
a
c
t
i
o
n
,
or
co
l
l
a
p
s
e
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
O
‐4:
Be
lo
c
a
t
e
d
on
ex
p
a
n
s
i
v
e
so
i
l
,
as
de
f
i
n
e
d
in
Se
c
t
i
o
n
18
0
3
.
5
.
3
of
th
e
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Co
d
e
(2
0
1
0
)
,
cr
e
a
t
i
n
g
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ri
s
k
s
to
li
f
e
or
pr
o
p
e
r
t
y
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
O
‐5:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
ge
o
l
o
g
i
c
a
l
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GR
E
E
N
H
O
U
S
E
GA
S
EM
I
S
S
I
O
N
S
GH
G
‐1:
Ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
GH
G
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
,
ei
t
h
e
r
di
r
e
c
t
l
y
or
in
d
i
r
e
c
t
l
y
,
th
a
t
ma
y
ha
v
e
a si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
im
p
a
c
t
on
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GH
G
‐2:
Co
n
f
l
i
c
t
wi
t
h
an
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
pl
a
n
,
po
l
i
c
y
,
or
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
ad
o
p
t
e
d
fo
r
th
e
pu
r
p
o
s
e
of
re
d
u
c
i
n
g
th
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
of
GH
G
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GH
G
‐3:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
ga
s
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
AL
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
T
O
T
H
E
P
R
O
P
O
S
E
D
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
LT
S
LT
S
/
M
SU
L
e
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
Le
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
W
i
t
h
M
i
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
a
n
d
U
n
a
v
o
i
d
a
b
l
e
5-
1
0
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5‐5
COM
P
A
R
I
S
O
N
OF
IMP
A
C
T
S
FR
O
M
PRO
J
E
C
T
ALT
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
To
p
i
c
Pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A
Land Use Alternative B
HA
Z
A
R
D
S
AN
D
HA
Z
A
R
D
O
U
S
MA
T
E
R
I
A
L
S
HA
Z
‐1:
Cr
e
a
t
e
a si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
ha
z
a
r
d
to
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
or
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
ro
u
t
i
n
e
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
,
us
e
,
or
di
s
p
o
s
a
l
of
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HA
Z
‐2:
Cr
e
a
t
e
a si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
ha
z
a
r
d
to
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
or
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
th
r
o
u
g
h
re
a
s
o
n
a
b
l
y
fo
r
e
s
e
e
a
b
l
e
up
s
e
t
an
d
ac
c
i
d
e
n
t
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
in
v
o
l
v
i
n
g
th
e
re
l
e
a
s
e
of
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
in
t
o
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HA
Z
‐3:
Em
i
t
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
or
ha
n
d
l
e
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
or
ac
u
t
e
l
y
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
su
b
s
t
a
n
c
e
s
,
or
wa
s
t
e
wi
t
h
i
n
on
e
‐qu
a
r
t
e
r
mi
l
e
of
an
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
or
pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
sc
h
o
o
l
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HA
Z
‐4:
Be
lo
c
a
t
e
d
on
a si
t
e
wh
i
c
h
is
in
c
l
u
d
e
d
on
a li
s
t
of
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
si
t
e
s
co
m
p
i
l
e
d
pu
r
s
u
a
n
t
to
Go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
Co
d
e
Se
c
t
i
o
n
65
9
6
2
.
5
an
d
,
as
a re
s
u
l
t
,
wo
u
l
d
it
cr
e
a
t
e
a si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
ha
z
a
r
d
to
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
or
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
.
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LTS/M
HA
Z
‐5:
Im
p
a
i
r
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
of
or
ph
y
s
i
c
a
l
l
y
in
t
e
r
f
e
r
e
wi
t
h
an
ad
o
p
t
e
d
em
e
r
g
e
n
c
y
re
s
p
o
n
s
e
pl
a
n
or
em
e
r
g
e
n
c
y
ev
a
c
u
a
t
i
o
n
pl
a
n
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HA
Z
‐6:
Ex
p
o
s
e
pe
o
p
l
e
or
st
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
s
to
a si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
ri
s
k
of
lo
s
s
,
in
j
u
r
y
,
or
de
a
t
h
in
v
o
l
v
i
n
g
wi
l
d
l
a
n
d
fi
r
e
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
wh
e
r
e
wi
l
d
l
a
n
d
s
ar
e
ad
j
a
c
e
n
t
to
ur
b
a
n
i
z
e
d
ar
e
a
s
or
wh
e
r
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
s
ar
e
in
t
e
r
m
i
x
e
d
wi
t
h
wi
l
d
l
a
n
d
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HA
Z
‐7:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
ha
z
a
r
d
s
an
d
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LT
S
/
M
LTS/M
HY
D
R
O
L
O
G
Y
AN
D
WA
T
E
R
QU
A
L
I
T
Y
HY
D
R
O
‐1: Vi
o
l
a
t
e
an
y
wa
t
e
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
or
wa
s
t
e
di
s
c
h
a
r
g
e
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HY
D
R
O
‐2: Su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
de
p
l
e
t
e
gr
o
u
n
d
w
a
t
e
r
su
p
p
l
i
e
s
or
in
t
e
r
f
e
r
e
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
wi
t
h
gr
o
u
n
d
w
a
t
e
r
re
c
h
a
r
g
e
su
c
h
th
a
t
th
e
r
e
wo
u
l
d
be
a
ne
t
de
f
i
c
i
t
in
aq
u
i
f
e
r
vo
l
u
m
e
or
a lo
w
e
r
i
n
g
of
th
e
lo
c
a
l
gr
o
u
n
d
w
a
t
e
r
ta
b
l
e
le
v
e
l
(e
.
g
.
th
e
pr
o
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
ra
t
e
of
pr
e
e
x
i
s
t
i
n
g
ne
a
r
b
y
we
l
l
s
wo
u
l
d
dr
o
p
to
a le
v
e
l
wh
i
c
h
wo
u
l
d
no
t
su
p
p
o
r
t
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
la
n
d
us
e
s
or
pl
a
n
n
e
d
us
e
s
fo
r
wh
i
c
h
pe
r
m
i
t
s
ha
v
e
be
e
n
gr
a
n
t
e
d
)
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
AL
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
T
O
T
H
E
P
R
O
P
O
S
E
D
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
LT
S
LT
S
/
M
SU
Bo
l
d
H
i
g
h
l
i
g
h
t
L
e
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
Le
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
W
i
t
h
M
i
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
a
n
d
U
n
a
v
o
i
d
a
b
l
e
In
d
i
c
a
t
e
s
d
i
f
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
i
n
s
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
c
e
f
i
n
d
i
n
g
.
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5-11
TAB
L
E
5‐5
COM
P
A
R
I
S
O
N
OF
IMP
A
C
T
S
FR
O
M
PRO
J
E
C
T
ALT
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
To
p
i
c
Pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A
Land Use Alternative B
HY
D
R
O
‐3: Su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
al
t
e
r
th
e
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
dr
a
i
n
a
g
e
pa
t
t
e
r
n
of
th
e
si
t
e
or
ar
e
a
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
al
t
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
co
u
r
s
e
of
a st
r
e
a
m
or
ri
v
e
r
,
in
a ma
n
n
e
r
wh
i
c
h
wo
u
l
d
re
s
u
l
t
in
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
er
o
s
i
o
n
or
si
l
t
a
t
i
o
n
on
‐
or
of
f
‐si
t
e
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HY
D
R
O
‐4: Cr
e
a
t
e
or
co
n
t
r
i
b
u
t
e
ru
n
o
f
f
wa
t
e
r
wh
i
c
h
wo
u
l
d
ex
c
e
e
d
th
e
ca
p
a
c
i
t
y
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
or
pl
a
n
n
e
d
st
o
r
m
w
a
t
e
r
dr
a
i
n
a
g
e
sy
s
t
e
m
s
or
pr
o
v
i
d
e
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
so
u
r
c
e
s
of
po
l
l
u
t
e
d
ru
n
o
f
f
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HY
D
R
O
‐5:
Ot
h
e
r
w
i
s
e
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
de
g
r
a
d
e
wa
t
e
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HY
D
R
O
‐6: Pl
a
c
e
ho
u
s
i
n
g
wi
t
h
i
n
a 10
0
‐ye
a
r
fl
o
o
d
ha
z
a
r
d
ar
e
a
as
ma
p
p
e
d
on
a fe
d
e
r
a
l
Fl
o
o
d
Ha
z
a
r
d
Bo
u
n
d
a
r
y
or
Fl
o
o
d
In
s
u
r
a
n
c
e
Ra
t
e
Ma
p
or
ot
h
e
r
fl
o
o
d
ha
z
a
r
d
de
l
i
n
e
a
t
i
o
n
ma
p
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HY
D
R
O
‐7: Ex
p
o
s
e
pe
o
p
l
e
or
st
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
s
to
a si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
ri
s
k
of
lo
s
s
,
in
j
u
r
y
,
or
de
a
t
h
in
v
o
l
v
i
n
g
fl
o
o
d
i
n
g
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
fl
o
o
d
i
n
g
as
a re
s
u
l
t
of
th
e
fa
i
l
u
r
e
of
a le
v
e
e
or
da
m
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HY
D
R
O
‐8: In
u
n
d
a
t
i
o
n
by
se
i
c
h
e
,
ts
u
n
a
m
i
,
or
mu
d
f
l
o
w
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
HY
D
R
O
‐9:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
hy
d
r
o
l
o
g
y
an
d
wa
t
e
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
LA
N
D
US
E
AN
D
PL
A
N
N
I
N
G
LU
‐1:
Ph
y
s
i
c
a
l
l
y
di
v
i
d
e
an
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
LU
‐2:
Co
n
f
l
i
c
t
wi
t
h
an
y
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
la
n
d
us
e
pl
a
n
,
po
l
i
c
y
,
or
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
an
ag
e
n
c
y
wi
t
h
ju
r
i
s
d
i
c
t
i
o
n
ov
e
r
th
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
(i
n
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
,
bu
t
no
t
li
m
i
t
e
d
to
th
e
ge
n
e
r
a
l
pl
a
n
,
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
pl
a
n
,
lo
c
a
l
co
a
s
t
a
l
pr
o
g
r
a
m
,
or
zo
n
i
n
g
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
)
ad
o
p
t
e
d
fo
r
th
e
pu
r
p
o
s
e
of
av
o
i
d
i
n
g
or
mi
t
i
g
a
t
i
n
g
an
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
ef
f
e
c
t
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
LU
‐3:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
la
n
d
us
e
an
d
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
NO
I
S
E
NO
I
S
E
‐1:
Ex
p
o
s
u
r
e
of
pe
r
s
o
n
s
to
or
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
no
i
s
e
le
v
e
l
s
in
ex
c
e
s
s
of
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
in
th
e
lo
c
a
l
ge
n
e
r
a
l
pl
a
n
or
no
i
s
e
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
,
or
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
of
ot
h
e
r
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
AL
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
T
O
T
H
E
P
R
O
P
O
S
E
D
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
LT
S
LT
S
/
M
SU
L
e
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
Le
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
W
i
t
h
M
i
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
a
n
d
U
n
a
v
o
i
d
a
b
l
e
5-
1
2
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5‐5
COM
P
A
R
I
S
O
N
OF
IMP
A
C
T
S
FR
O
M
PRO
J
E
C
T
ALT
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
To
p
i
c
Pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A
Land Use Alternative B
NO
I
S
E
‐2:
Ex
p
o
s
u
r
e
of
pe
r
s
o
n
s
to
or
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
ex
c
e
s
s
i
v
e
gr
o
u
n
d
b
o
r
n
e
vi
b
r
a
t
i
o
n
or
gr
o
u
n
d
b
o
r
n
e
no
i
s
e
le
v
e
l
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
NO
I
S
E
‐3:
A su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
pe
r
m
a
n
e
n
t
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
am
b
i
e
n
t
no
i
s
e
le
v
e
l
s
in
th
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
vi
c
i
n
i
t
y
ab
o
v
e
le
v
e
l
s
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
wi
t
h
o
u
t
th
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
.
SU
SU
SU
SU
NO
I
S
E
‐4:
A su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
te
m
p
o
r
a
r
y
or
pe
r
i
o
d
i
c
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
am
b
i
e
n
t
no
i
s
e
le
v
e
l
s
in
th
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
vi
c
i
n
i
t
y
ab
o
v
e
le
v
e
l
s
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
wi
t
h
o
u
t
th
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
NO
I
S
E
‐5:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
no
i
s
e
.
SU
SU
SU
SU
PO
P
U
L
A
T
I
O
N
AN
D
HO
U
S
I
N
G
PO
P
‐1:
In
d
u
c
e
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
un
e
x
p
e
c
t
e
d
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
gr
o
w
t
h
,
or
gr
o
w
t
h
fo
r
wh
i
c
h
in
a
d
e
q
u
a
t
e
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
ha
s
oc
c
u
r
r
e
d
,
ei
t
h
e
r
di
r
e
c
t
l
y
or
in
d
i
r
e
c
t
l
y
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PO
P
‐2:
Di
s
p
l
a
c
e
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
nu
m
b
e
r
s
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
ho
u
s
i
n
g
,
ne
c
e
s
s
i
t
a
t
i
n
g
th
e
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
ho
u
s
i
n
g
el
s
e
w
h
e
r
e
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PO
P
‐3:
Di
s
p
l
a
c
e
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
nu
m
b
e
r
s
of
pe
o
p
l
e
,
ne
c
e
s
s
i
t
a
t
i
n
g
th
e
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
ho
u
s
i
n
g
el
s
e
w
h
e
r
e
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PO
P
‐4:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
ho
u
s
i
n
g
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PU
B
L
I
C
SE
R
V
I
C
E
S
AN
D
RE
C
R
E
A
T
I
O
N
Re
s
u
l
t
in
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ph
y
s
i
c
a
l
im
p
a
c
t
s
as
s
o
c
i
a
t
e
d
wi
t
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of
ne
w
or
ph
y
s
i
c
a
l
l
y
al
t
e
r
e
d
go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
ne
e
d
fo
r
ne
w
or
ph
y
s
i
c
a
l
l
y
al
t
e
r
e
d
go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
th
e
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
wh
i
c
h
co
u
l
d
ca
u
s
e
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
im
p
a
c
t
s
,
in
or
d
e
r
to
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
ac
c
e
p
t
a
b
l
e
se
r
v
i
c
e
ra
t
i
o
s
,
re
s
p
o
n
s
e
ti
m
e
s
or
ot
h
e
r
pe
r
f
o
r
m
a
n
c
e
ob
j
e
c
t
i
v
e
s
fo
r
an
y
of
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
se
r
v
i
c
e
s
:
PS
‐1:
Fi
r
e
pr
o
t
e
c
t
i
o
n
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐2:
Fi
r
e
pr
o
t
e
c
t
i
o
n
(c
u
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
)
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐3:
Po
l
i
c
e
pr
o
t
e
c
t
i
o
n
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐4:
Po
l
i
c
e
pr
o
t
e
c
t
i
o
n
(c
u
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
)
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐5:
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
AL
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
T
O
T
H
E
P
R
O
P
O
S
E
D
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
LT
S
LT
S
/
M
SU
Bo
l
d
H
i
g
h
l
i
g
h
t
L
e
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
Le
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
W
i
t
h
M
i
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
a
n
d
U
n
a
v
o
i
d
a
b
l
e
In
d
i
c
a
t
e
s
d
i
f
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
i
n
s
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
c
e
f
i
n
d
i
n
g
.
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5-13
TAB
L
E
5‐5
COM
P
A
R
I
S
O
N
OF
IMP
A
C
T
S
FR
O
M
PRO
J
E
C
T
ALT
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
To
p
i
c
Pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A
Land Use Alternative B
PS
‐6:
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
(c
u
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
)
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐7:
Li
b
r
a
r
i
e
s
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐8:
Li
b
r
a
r
i
e
s
(c
u
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
)
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐9:
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
us
e
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
an
d
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
pa
r
k
s
or
ot
h
e
r
re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
su
c
h
th
a
t
su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
ph
y
s
i
c
a
l
de
t
e
r
i
o
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
y
wo
u
l
d
oc
c
u
r
,
or
be
ac
c
e
l
e
r
a
t
e
d
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐10
:
In
c
l
u
d
e
or
re
q
u
i
r
e
th
e
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
or
ex
p
a
n
s
i
o
n
of
re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
wh
i
c
h
mi
g
h
t
ha
v
e
an
ad
v
e
r
s
e
ph
y
s
i
c
a
l
ef
f
e
c
t
on
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
PS
‐11
:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
pa
r
k
s
an
d
re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
TR
A
N
S
P
O
R
T
A
T
I
O
N
AN
D
TR
A
F
F
I
C
TR
A
F
‐1:
Co
n
f
l
i
c
t
wi
t
h
an
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
pl
a
n
,
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
or
po
l
i
c
y
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
i
n
g
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
of
ef
f
e
c
t
i
v
e
n
e
s
s
fo
r
th
e
pe
r
f
o
r
m
a
n
c
e
of
th
e
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
,
ta
k
i
n
g
in
t
o
ac
c
o
u
n
t
al
l
mo
d
e
s
of
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
ma
s
s
tr
a
n
s
i
t
an
d
no
n
‐mo
t
o
r
i
z
e
d
tr
a
v
e
l
an
d
re
l
e
v
a
n
t
co
m
p
o
n
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
bu
t
no
t
li
m
i
t
e
d
to
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
,
st
r
e
e
t
s
,
hi
g
h
w
a
y
s
an
d
fr
e
e
w
a
y
s
,
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
t
h
s
,
an
d
ma
s
s
tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
SU
SU
SU
SU
TR
A
F
‐2:
Co
n
f
l
i
c
t
wi
t
h
an
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
co
n
g
e
s
t
i
o
n
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
pr
o
g
r
a
m
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
,
bu
t
no
t
li
m
i
t
e
d
to
le
v
e
l
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
an
d
tr
a
v
e
l
de
m
a
n
d
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
,
or
ot
h
e
r
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
by
th
e
co
u
n
t
y
co
n
g
e
s
t
i
o
n
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
ag
e
n
c
y
fo
r
de
s
i
g
n
a
t
e
d
ro
a
d
s
or
hi
g
h
w
a
y
s
.
SU
SU
SU
SU
TR
A
F
‐3:
Su
b
s
t
a
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
ha
z
a
r
d
s
du
e
to
a de
s
i
g
n
fe
a
t
u
r
e
(e
.
g
.
sh
a
r
p
cu
r
v
e
s
or
da
n
g
e
r
o
u
s
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
)
or
in
c
o
m
p
a
t
i
b
l
e
us
e
s
(e
.
g
.
fa
r
m
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
)
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
TR
A
F
‐4:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
in
a
d
e
q
u
a
t
e
em
e
r
g
e
n
c
y
ac
c
e
s
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
TR
A
F
‐5:
Co
n
f
l
i
c
t
wi
t
h
ad
o
p
t
e
d
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
,
pl
a
n
s
,
or
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
,
bi
c
y
c
l
e
,
or
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
or
ot
h
e
r
w
i
s
e
de
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
pe
r
f
o
r
m
a
n
c
e
or
sa
f
e
t
y
of
su
c
h
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
.
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
AL
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
T
O
T
H
E
P
R
O
P
O
S
E
D
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
LT
S
LT
S
/
M
SU
L
e
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
Le
s
s
T
h
a
n
S
i
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
W
i
t
h
M
i
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
a
n
d
U
n
a
v
o
i
d
a
b
l
e
5-
1
4
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5‐5
COM
P
A
R
I
S
O
N
OF
IMP
A
C
T
S
FR
O
M
PRO
J
E
C
T
ALT
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
S
To
p
i
c
Pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A
Land Use Alternative B
TR
A
F
‐6:
Re
s
u
l
t
in
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
cu
m
u
l
a
t
i
v
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
wi
t
h
re
s
p
e
c
t
to
tr
a
f
f
i
c
an
d
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
.
SU
SU
SU
SU
UT
I
L
I
T
I
E
S
AN
D
IN
F
R
A
S
T
R
U
C
T
U
R
E
Wa
t
e
r
Su
p
p
l
y
UT
I
L
‐1:
Ha
v
e
su
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
wa
t
e
r
su
p
p
l
i
e
s
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
to
se
r
v
e
th
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
fr
o
m
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
en
t
i
t
l
e
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
,
or
ar
e
ne
w
or
ex
p
a
n
d
e
d
en
t
i
t
l
e
m
e
n
t
s
ne
e
d
e
d
LT
S
LT
S
LT
S
LTS
UT
I
L
‐2:
Re
q
u
i
r
e
or
re
s
u
l
t
in
th
e
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
ne
w
wa
t
e
r
tr
e
a
t
m
e
n
t
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
or
ex
p
a
n
s
i
o
n
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
th
e
co
n
s
t
r
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GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
5-16 JUNE 18, 2014
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
As stated above, the range of potential alternatives to the Project shall include those that could feasibly
accomplish most of the basic objectives of the proposed Project. The primary purposes of the proposed
Project include: 1) replenishing, re-allocating, and increasing citywide office, commercial, hotel, and
residential development allocations in order to plan for anticipated future growth while sustaining the
community’s character, goals, and objectives; 2) consolidating development requests by several property
owners for amendments to the General Plan, by reviewing seven Study Areas; and 3) providing a full range
of housing to meet the needs of all segments of the city’s population. To achieve the primary purposes, the
Project will seek to accomplish the following objectives.
Emphasize employment and a mix of economic development opportunities by replenishing, re-
allocating, and increasing city-wide office, commercial, and hotel, allocations in order to capture:
A share of the regional demand for office and hotel development, and
Retail sales tax leakage in the trade area.
Address local needs and regional requirements for new housing, including affordable housing, in
Cupertino by replenishing, re-allocating and increasing city-wide residential allocations to be consistent
with 2040 Bay Area Plan projections to allow flexibility for the city when future state-mandated updates
are required to the Housing Element.
Update the Housing Element as required by State law.
Creating opportunities for mixed-use development consistent with Regional Sustainable Communities
Strategies for greenhouse gas emissions reductions as required by Senate Bill 375.
Investing in improvement to adapt to climate change over time.
Consider increased heights in key nodes and gateways, if proposed development provides retail
development and benefits directly to the community.
Update General Plan policies to implement multi-modal traffic standards as opposed to LOS thresholds
currently identified. Balancing development objectives with transportation constraints and
opportunities.
Revitalize the Vallco Shopping District by adopting policies to support its redevelopment, so it becomes
a cohesive, vibrant shopping and entertainment destination that serves both the region and the local
community.
As discussed in Chapters 5.1, No Project Alternative, this alternative would not meet the overall intent of
the proposed Project, which is to replenish development allocations and update the Housing Element as
required by State Law. However, as shown in Chapter 5.2 Land Use Alternative A, and 5.3, Land Use
Alternative B, each of these alternatives would meet the intent of the proposed Project, but not at the same
level because development allocations would be incrementally less when compared to the proposed Project.
However, the Housing Element would be updated and other General Plan, Land Use Map, and Zoning
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
PLACEWORKS 5-17
Ordinance and Zoning Map amendments would occur the same as the proposed Project. Therefore, both
Land Use Alternative A and B would generally meet the overall project objectives.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SUPERIOR ALTERNATIVE
In addition to the discussion and comparison of impacts of the proposed Project and the Alternatives,
Section 15126.6 of the CEQA Guidelines requires that an “environmentally superior” alternative be selected
and the reasons for such a selection be disclosed. The environmentally superior alternative is the alternative
that would be expected to generate the least amount of significant impacts. Identification of the
environmentally superior alternative is an informational procedure and the alternative selected may not be
the alternative that best meets the goals or needs of Cupertino.
As shown in Table 5-5, the impacts associated with each of the four land use scenarios analyzed in this EIR
would essentially be the same. As previously stated, this is because the recommended mitigation measures
would apply to all the alternatives, and compliance with the General Plan policies designed to reduce
environmental impacts would also apply to all future development in Cupertino. However, as shown in Table
5-5, Land Use Alternative B would reduce air quality impacts under Impact AQ-1.
While Land Use Alternative B would reduce air quality impacts as described above, the No Project
Alternative would ultimately be the environmentally superior alternative because it would not allow for
new development to occur beyond what is currently planned for in the 2000-2020 General Plan, which
would result is the least amount of development in the City and thereby reduce the consumption of
renewable resources (e.g. lumber and water) and nonrenewable resources (e.g. fossil fuels, natural gas, and
gasoline). Less development would place fewer demands on public service providers (which could require
new facilities), would require fewer road, sewer, water and energy infrastructure improvements, and would
generate less waste, which would overall reduce impacts on the environment.
However, in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(2), if the environmentally
superior alternative is the CEQA-required No Project alternative, the EIR shall also identify an
environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives. Accordingly, the next environmentally
superior alternative would be Land Use Alternative A, because less development would occur compared to
both the proposed Project and Land Use Alternative B. Under Land Use Alternative A, no new commercial
space or residential units would be permitted beyond what is approved in the current General Plan.
Therefore, Alternative A is considered the environmentally superior alternative.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
5-18 JUNE 18, 2014
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-1
5.1 NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(1), the No Project Alternative is required as part of the
“reasonable range of alternatives” to allow decision makers to compare the impacts of approving the
proposed Project with the impacts of taking no action or not approving the proposed Project. Consistent
with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(3)(A), when the project is the revision of a plan, as in this case,
the no project alternative will be the continuation of the existing plan. Per CEQA Guidelines Section
15126.6(e)(3)(C), the City of Cupertino, acting as the lead agency, should analyze the impacts of the no
project alternative by projecting what would reasonably be expected to occur in the foreseeable future if the
proposed Project were not approved, based on current plans and consistent with available infrastructure and
community services. Implementation of the No Project Alternative assumes that the development allocation
throughout the city would remain unchanged until the buildout horizon year 2040, which is the same
horizon year of the proposed Project. Table 5.1-1 shows the remaining development allocation in the
current General Plan, which as shown, represents the buildout projections for this Alternative, and the total
buildout that would occur under this Alternative.
TABLE 5.1‐1 NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION & PROJECTIONS SUMMARY
Category
Existing
(2013)a Remaining
Net New
Proposed
No
Projectb
Buildout
(2040)c
Office 8,929,774 sf 540,231 sf 0 sf 540,231 sf 9,470,005 sf
Commercial 3,729,569 sf 701,413 sf 0 sf 701,413 sf 4,430,982 sf
Hotel 1,090 rooms 339 rooms 0 rooms 339 rooms 1,429 rooms
Residential 21,399 units 1,895 units 0 units 1,895 units 23,294 units
Population 58,302 5,571d 0 5,571d 63,873
Jobs 21,399 3,461e 0 3,461e 30,848
Note: sf = square feet
a. The amount of development that is built and approved in the city and the population and jobs accounted for in 2013.
b. The “remaining” development allocation plus the “net new proposed” equals the total new development potential under the No Project Alternative.
c. The “existing” (i.e. built/approved 2013 baseline) plus the “No Project” alternative equals the total 2040 buildout projections.
d. Population is calculated by 1,895 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
e. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 540,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square feet equals 1,801 jobs;
701,413 square feet of commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 1,559 jobs; and 339 hotel rooms at .3 jobs per room equals 101 jobs for a
total of 3,461 jobs.
Source: City of Cupertino, 2014.
The potential future development permitted under the No Project Alternative would not increase
development potential in Cupertino beyond what was considered in the current General Plan and analyzed
in the General Plan EIR, but rather would allow development of the remaining development allocation
shown in Table 5.1-1. No General Plan land use or Zoning designation changes would be required to
accommodate these uses.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-2 JUNE 18, 2014
As shown in Table 5-2, in Chapter 5, Alternatives to the Proposed Project, of this Draft EIR, the No Project
Alternative would allocate 87 percent less office space, 48 percent less commercial space, 75 percent fewer
hotel rooms, 57 percent fewer residential units and new residents, 79 percent fewer new jobs. When
comparing the 2040 buildout of the No Project to the proposed Project, as shown in Table 5-4, the No
Project Alternative would result in 27 percent less office space, 13 percent less commercial space, 41
percent fewer hotel rooms, 10 percent fewer residential units and new residents, and 30 percent fewer new
jobs.
The differences between the proposed Project and the No Project Alternative would be incremental and
even if no action was taken, regional growth, and the associated environmental effects linked to this growth,
would continue to occur under the provisions of the current 2000-2020 General Plan.
5.1.1 OFFICE DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
Under this alternative, the areas within the city that have remaining office space allocation are the Heart of
the City Specific Plan area and the Major Employers, a geographically non-specific allocation category, but is
instead reserved for companies with sales offices and corporate headquarters in Cupertino. The Heart of the
City Specific Plan area has a remaining office allocation of 17,113 square feet and the Major Employers
category has a remaining office space allocation of 523,118 square feet. The remaining office development
allocation does not include the Apple Campus 2 project.
5.1.2 COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
The remaining commercial space allocation is located within the Heart of the City Specific Plan area and the
Monta Vista Special Center, at 695,629 square feet and 5,784 square feet, respectively.
5.1.3 HOTEL DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
Under this Alternative, the Heart of the City Specific Plan holds the only remaining hotel room allocation at
339 rooms.
5.1.4 HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
The residential unit development allocation under this Alternative would accommodate the Regional
Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for the 2014-2022 planning period and allow the city to meet its fair-
share housing obligation of 1,064 units. As shown in Table 5.1-2, the residential allocation would allow for
the construction of up to 1,895 units, which represents 831 units above the Cupertino’s fair share housing
obligation. Under this alternative, new residential units would be distributed in the Special Centers/Other
Areas outlined in the current General Plan, as shown below in Table 5.1-2.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-3
TABLE 5.1‐2 SPECIAL CENTERS/OTHER AREAS – NEW RESIDENTIAL UNIT DISTRIBUTION
Special Centers/Other Areas New Residential Units
Homestead Road Employment Center 184
Vallco Park North Employment Center 297
Heart of the City Specific Plan Employment Center 608
North De Anza Boulevard Employment Center 97
South De Anza Boulevard Employment Center 230
Bubb Road Employment Center 94
Monta Vista Neighborhood Center 74
Other Commercial 70
Other Neighborhoods 241
Total 1,895
Source: City of Cupertino, 2014.
5.1.5 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
There would be no height or density increases under the No Project Alternative. Overall, future
development of the areas mapped as Special Areas along major transportation corridors, including
Gateways/Nodes, Study Areas, and Other Areas identified in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft
EIR, would continue to develop and function under existing conditions, as described in detail for each
Project Component in Section 3.7, Project Components, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft
EIR.
5.1.6 NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS
5.1.6.1 AESTHETICS
AES-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not have a substantial
adverse effect on a scenic vista.
Future development under the No Project Alternative would have the potential to affect scenic vistas and/or
scenic corridors if new or intensified development blocked views of areas that provide or contribute to such
vistas. Under this alternative, development allocations for commercial, office, hotel, and residential would
not be replenished. Therefore, future development would occur under the existing remaining development
allocations, as shown in Table 5.1-1. Potential effects could include blocking views of a scenic vista/corridor
from specific publically accessible vantage points or the alteration of the overall scenic vista/corridor itself.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-4 JUNE 18, 2014
Such alterations could be positive or negative, depending on the characteristics of individual future
developments and the subjective perception of observers.
Public views of scenic corridors are considered those views as seen along a linear transportation route and
public views of scenic vistas are those views a specific scenic feature. Scenic vistas are generally interpreted
as long-range views, while scenic corridors are comprised of short-, middle-, and long-range views. As
stated in Section 4.1.1, Environmental Setting, of Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR, the current
General Plan does not have designated scenic corridors or vistas. However, for this analysis the westward
views of the foothills and ridgelines of the Santa Cruz Mountains are considered scenic vistas and the
segment of I-280 from Santa Clara County line on the west I-880 on the east which Caltrans has designated
as an “eligible” State Scenic Highway is considered a scenic corridor. The impacts are discussed below under
Impact AES-2.
Potential future development would be concentrated on a limited number of vacant parcels and in the form
of infill/intensification on sites either already developed and/or underutilized, and/or in close proximity to
existing commercial and residential development, where future development would have a lesser impact on
scenic vistas. Under this alternative, there would be no changes or replenishment of development allocations
and this alternative would continue to function under existing conditions.
Because there would be no increase in building heights under the No Project Alternative, potential new
development under this alternative is not anticipated to block the far-field views of the Santa Cruz Mountain
Range and foothills throughout the city. In addition, provided that the topography in Cupertino is essentially
flat, the views from street-level public viewing to the scenic resources are currently inhibited by existing
conditions such as buildings, structures, and mature trees/vegetation, the maximum heights currently
permitted limit the opportunity for these views from street-level public viewing, and the distributed nature
of future development under this alternative, it is not anticipated that future development under the existing
standards would further obstruct public views of scenic resources from within the city. Similar views would
continue to be visible between projects and over lower density areas. Considering this and the fact that the
future development areas within Cupertino are not considered destination public viewing points nor are
they visible from scenic vistas, overall impacts to scenic vistas would be less than significant.
Furthermore, potential future development would, if necessary, be subject to the Architectural and Site
Review process, in accordance with Section 19.168, Architectural and Site Review, of the Zoning Ordinance
or would be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in the Heart of the City Specific Plan, the
Monta Vista Design Guidelines, the Vallco Master Plan and other Conceptual Plans discussed in Section
4.1.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR.
Current General Plan policies would ensure future development in the Cupertino would conceivably reduce
potential aesthetic impacts of future development under the No Project Alternative. Within the current
Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-1, Concentrated Development in Urban Centers, requires
the City to concentrate development in urban nodes and selectively include housing with office and
commercial uses where appropriate in designated centers. Policy 2-6, Neighborhood Protection, requires
the City to protect residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from
more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, activity, limitations, site
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-5
design and other appropriate measures. Policy 2-13, Urban Building Forms, requires the City to concentrate
urban building forms in Vallco Park, City Center and Crossroads/ Heart of the City planning areas. Policy 2-
14, Attractive Building and Site Design, requires the City to emphasize attractive building and site design
during the development review process by giving careful attention to building scale, mass and placement,
architecture, materials, landscaping, screening of equipment and loading areas, and related design
considerations. Policy 2-15, Multi-Family Residential Design, requires the City to maintain a superior living
environment for multi-family dwellings. Policy 2-16, Single-Family Residential Design, requires the City to
preserve the character of residential neighborhoods by requiring new development to be compatible with
the existing neighborhood. Policy 2-17, Streetscape Design, requires the City to consider unique streetscape
choices for different parts of Cupertino. Policy 2-18, Context of Streetscape Landscaping, requires the City
to, in public and private landscaping projects subject to City review, select landscaping designs that reflect
the development context. Policy 2-21, Unique Neighborhood Character, requires the City to identify
neighborhoods that have an architectural style, historical background or location that contribute to a unique
neighborhood, and develop plans that preserve and enhance their unique qualities. Policy 2-23,
Compatibility of Lot Sizes, requires the City to ensure that zoning, subdivision and lot line adjustment
requests related to lot size or lot design consider the need to preserve neighborhood lot patterns. Policy 2-
27, Heart of the City, requires the City to create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek
Boulevard of mixed use development, enhanced activity nodes, and safe and efficient circulation and access
for all modes of transportation. Policy 2-28, Crossroads Area, requires the City to create an active,
pedestrian-oriented shopping district along Stevens Creek Boulevard, between De Anza Boulevard and
Stelling Road. Policy 2-29, Stevens Creek Boulevard, requires the City to retain and enhance Stevens Creek
Boulevard as a mixed commercial, office and residential corridor connecting De Anza College, Crossroads,
City Center and Vallco Fashion Mall. This corridor extends from SR 85 to the eastern city limits and is split
into three segments: “West,” “Central” and “East.” The Crossroads Planning Area is between the Western and
Central sections of the Stevens Creek Boulevard Planning Area. Policy 2-30, Vallco Park South, requires the
City to retain and enhance Vallco Park South as a large-scale commercial area that is a regional commercial
(including hotel), office and entertainment center with supporting residential development. Policy 2-31,
Homestead Road, requires the City to create an integrated, mixed-use commercial and housing village along
Homestead Road, consisting of three integrated areas. Each area will be master planned, with special
attention to the interconnectivity of these areas. Policy 2-33, North De Anza Boulevard, requires the City to
maintain and enhance North De Anza Boulevard as a regional employment center with supporting
commercial and residential land uses. Policy 2-34, City Center, requires the City to maintain and enhance
City Center as a moderate-scale, medium density, mixed use district that will provide community identity
and activity and will support retail uses in the Crossroads Area. Policy 2-35, Vallco Park North, requires the
City to retain Vallco Park North as an employment area of predominately office and light industrial
activities, with neighborhood commercial uses. Policy 2-36, Bubb Road, requires the City to retain the Bubb
Road area primarily as a low-rise industrial and research and development area. Policy 2-45, Vallco
Redevelopment Area, requires the City to facilitate redevelopment in the Vallco Redevelopment Area as a
distinctive, regional shopping, residential and entertainment center, with hotel uses. Policy 2-48, Hillside
Development Standards, requires the City to establish building and development standards for the hillsides
that ensure hillside protection. Policy 2-49, Previously Designated Very Low Density Semi-Rural 5-Acre,
requires the City to allow certain hillside properties to develop using a previous General Plan Designation.
Policy 2-52, Rural Improvement Standards in Hillside Areas, calls for the City to require rural improvement
standards in hillside areas to preserve the rural character of the hillsides. Policy 2-53, Views for Public
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-6 JUNE 18, 2014
Facilities, requires the City to design and lay out public facilities, particularly public open spaces, so they
include views of the foothills or other nearby natural features, and plan hillside developments to minimize
visual and other impacts on adjacent public open space. Policy 2-62A, Historic Sites, calls for the City to
require projects on Historic Sites to meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standard for Treatment of Historic
Properties and provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the
historic significance of the resource(s). The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was
built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the
information. For public and quasi-public sites, coordinate with property owner to allow public access of the
historical site to foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-owned sites,
property owners would be encouraged, but in no way required, to provide access to the public. Policy 2-
62B, Commemorative Sites, calls for the City to require projects on Commemorative Sites to provide a
plaque, reader board and/or other educational tool on the site to explain the historic significance of the
resource. The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written description and
photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the information. For public and
quasi-public sites, coordinate with property owner to allow public access to the historical site to foster
public awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-owned sites, property owners would
be encouraged, but not in no way required, to provide access to the public. Policy 2-62C, Community
Landmarks, calls for the City to require projects on Landmark Sites shall provide a plaque, reader board
and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the historic significance of the resource. The plaque
shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written description and photograph and
shall be placed in a location where the public can view the information. Policy 2-62D, Historic
Mention/Interest Sites, requires the City to encourage agencies that have jurisdiction over the historical
resource to encourage rehabilitation of the resource and provide public access to foster public awareness and
provide educational opportunities. These are sites outside the City’s jurisdictions, but have contributed to
the City’s historic past. Policy 2-62E, Incentives for Preservation of Historic Resources, states that the City
should utilize a variety of techniques to serve as incentives toward fostering the preservation and
rehabilitation of Historic Sites including: allowing flexible interpretation of zoning ordinance not essential to
public health and safety (this could include flexibility as to use, parking requirements and/or setback
requirements); using the California Historical Building Code for rehabilitation of historic structures; tax
rebates (Mills Act or Local tax rebates); financial incentives such as grants/loans to assist rehabilitation
efforts. Policy 2-62F, Recognizing Historical Resources, requires the City to maintain an inventory of
historically significant structures and periodically update it in order to promote awareness of these
community resources. Policy 2-65, Heritage Trees, requires the City to protect and maintain heritage trees
in a healthy state. Policy 2-79, Park Design, requires the City to design parks to utilize the natural features
and topography of the site and to keep long-term maintenance costs low. Policy 2-88, New Residential
Development in Urban Core Areas, requires the City to provide park and recreational space and facilities for
new residential development in the urban core. The need for dedication of public parkland and the provision
of private recreational space and facilities shall be determined when a master plan is submitted for the
development, based on the following criteria:
1. Where feasible, public park space, as opposed to private, should be provided. Active park areas are
encouraged that will serve the community need. Passive areas are acceptable, when appropriate to an
urban setting. Features could include paths, benches, water features, picnic tables, public art, trees and
gardens. They should be oriented toward the street or an activity area where it is easily accessible to the
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-7
public. Passive areas deemed inaccessible or unlikely to be used by the public should not be credited
toward park dedication. Providing public trail connections may be given partial credit toward park
dedication.
2. Where feasible, public park and recreational facilities should be provided for those who live and work in
Cupertino.
3. New residential developments should be encouraged to blend their recreational facilities into the
community at large.
4. Park fees should be collected based on a formula that considers the extent to which the public and/or
private park space and facilities meet the park need.
Within the current Circulation Element Policy 4-8, Roadway Plans that Complement the Needs of Adjacent
Land Use, requires the City to design roadways based on efficient alignments, appropriate number and
widths of traffic lanes, inclusion of medians, parking and bicycle lanes and the suitable width and location of
sidewalks as needed to support the adjacent properties. In addition, design the local streets to satisfy the
aesthetic requirements of the area served. In general, the aesthetics of a street will be improved if it can be
narrower rather than wider, include significant landscaping with shade trees, and provide safe and
convenient places for people to bicycle and walk. Details of design, such as provision of vertical curbs and
minimum corner radii, are to be considered desirable. Design details should be developed in the City’s road
improvement standards. Policy 4-10, Street Improvement Planning, requires the City to plan street
improvements such as curb cuts, sidewalks, bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash
containers as an integral part of a project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of
people and vehicles with the least possible disruption to the streetscape.
Within the current Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element Policy 5-9, Development Near
Sensitive Areas, Encourage the clustering of new development away from sensitive areas such as riparian
corridors, wildlife habitat and corridors, public open space preserves and ridgelines. New developments in
these areas must have a harmonious landscaping plans approved prior to development.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not substantially
damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings, within a state scenic highway.
As previously discussed under Impact AES-1, the segment of I-280 which crosses Cupertino is not an
officially designated State Scenic Highway, but is considered to be an eligible State Scenic Highway.
Development in the Heart of the City Special Area could be within the viewshed of I-280. However, as
described below, these Major Mixed-Use Special Areas are currently developed. Under the No Project
Alternative, future development would continue to occur and function under existing conditions, as
described in detail for each Project Component in Section 3.7, Project Components, in Chapter 3, Project
Description, of this Draft EIR.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-8 JUNE 18, 2014
Therefore, would not result in height or density increases and future development under this alternative
would not represent a substantial reimagining of the character of the Project Component locations in the I-
280 viewshed given the existing viewshed within this area is largely urbanized and built out. The potential
future development under this alternative would not involve changes in development intensity along the I-
280 viewshed, similar to existing buildings. Future development, as result of the No Project Alternative,
would be dispersed within the areas that have remaining development allocation and would not fully
obstruct views of far-field scenic resources (e.g. Santa Cruz Mountains) from I-280.
Furthermore, potential future development would, if necessary, be subject to the Architectural and Site
Review process, in accordance with Section 19.168 of the Zoning Ordinance. Future development would
also would be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in the Heart of the City Specific Plan, the
Vallco Master Plan and other Conceptual Plans as described in Section 4.1.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in
Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR, and the General Plan policies outlined in impact discussion AES-
1, that limit the height and bulk of buildings. Accordingly, impacts related to scenic resources in the I-280
viewshed would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not substantially
degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its
surroundings.
Under the No Project Alternative, the remaining development allocations for office, commercial, and hotel
would be limited to the Heart of the City Special Area and the Monta Vista Neighborhood Center, and the
Major Employers category (a non-geographically specific area). In addition, housing could occur on the
identified Housing Element Sites distributed though out the city as well as the Monta Vista Neighborhood
Center, the Bubb Road Special Area, and the Other Neighborhood and Other Non-residential/Mixed Use
Special Areas. These locations are concentrated on areas either already developed and/or underutilized,
and/or in close proximity to existing commercial, residential and residential-serving development. Future
building form and massing, under the No Project Alternative, would remain similar to existing conditions
(e.g. no building height increases would occur); therefore, would not degrade the existing surrounding
character.
Implementation of this alternative would allow continued development and redevelopment throughout the
city similar to existing conditions, and would not result in the replenishing of development allocation. As
discussed above, future development under the No Project Alternative would not result in a substantial
change to the existing visual character of the development areas or their surroundings.
Furthermore, potential future development would, if necessary, be subject to the City’s discretionary review
processes, including the Development Permit and Architectural and Site Approval Review, in accordance
with Chapter 19.168 of the Zoning Ordinance. Future development would also would be required to
comply with Design Standards outlined in the Heart of the City Specific Plan and the Vallco Master Plan as
described in Section 4.1.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR, and the
General Plan policies outlined in impact discussion AES-1, that limit the height and bulk of buildings.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-9
Accordingly, potential impacts to visual character from future development under the No Project
Alternative would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not create a new
source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or
nighttime views in the area.
Nighttime illumination and glare impacts are the effects of a project’s exterior lighting upon adjoining uses
and areas. Light and glare impacts are determined through a comparison of the existing light sources with
the proposed lighting plan or policies of future development projects.
Currently, the Project Study Area contains many existing sources of nighttime illumination. These include
street and parking area lights, security lighting, and exterior lighting on existing residential, commercial,
and institutional buildings. Additional onsite light and glare is caused by surrounding land uses and traffic on
State Route 85 (SR 85) and I-280.
Although the No Project Alternative would not result in the modification of land uses, zoning, density, or
heights, future development allowed under the remaining development allocation would still intensify
related lighting sources. In addition to new building, security, and lighting for parking, buildout of the
Project Study Area under this alternative would also include lighting aimed at properly illuminating the
Project Component locations. Because the No Project Alternative would allow development throughout the
Project Study Area, its implementation would likely result in some new buildings with more exterior glazing
(i.e. windows and doors) that could result in new sources of glare. Despite the new and expanded sources of
nighttime illumination and glare, implementation of the No Project Alternative is not expected to generate a
substantial increase in light and glare.
New development would have to comply with the General Plan policies and Municipal Code provisions that
ensure new construction does not generate excessive light levels. The City’s General Plan policies require
reduced light and glare spillover from future development to surrounding land uses by buffering new
development with landscaping and trees. The preservation of mature trees with substantial tree canopies
would diffuse the overall amount of light generated by new development and glare generated by windows of
multistory buildings. Furthermore, because the Project Component locations and surrounding area are
largely developed, the lighting associated with the No Project Alternative would not substantially increase
nighttime light and glare within the Project Study Area or its surroundings. Therefore, impacts relating to
light and glare would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-10 JUNE 18, 2014
AES-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present and reasonably foreseeable projects would not result in a
significant cumulative impacts with respect to aesthetics.
This discussion takes into account growth projected under the No Project Alternative within the Cupertino
city boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest
of Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of
Governments (ABAG). The cumulative setting for visual impacts includes potential future development
under the proposed General Pan combined with effects of development on lands adjacent to the city within
Los Altos and Sunnyvale to the north, Santa Clara and San Jose to the east, and Saratoga to the south, and
the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County to the west and south.
Significant impacts, including those associated with scenic resources, visual character, and increased light
and glare would generally be site-specific and would not contribute to cumulative impacts after
implementation of the General Plan policies and the provisions stated in the Municipal Code. Because future
development would occur and function under existing conditions within the designated growth areas, it is
unlikely that future development under this alternative would drastically alter the City’s vertical landscape
and urban form over time, as new development is proposed.
Because of the developed nature of the Project Study Area, future development under the General Plan
Amendment, Housing Element Update, and associated Rezoning, in combination with other new
development, would not negatively impact the visual character of the City. Furthermore, implementation of
the No Project Alternative would not constitute a significant adverse impact because redevelopment of the
area is also anticipated in the current specific plans and the City’s General Plan policies.
Moreover, potential new development under this alternative would be subject to entitlement review,
including environmental review, as necessary and architectural and site design review, to ensure that the
development is aesthetically pleasing and compatible with adjoining land uses. With the development review
mechanisms in place, approved future development under the No Project Alternative is not anticipated to
create substantial impacts to visual resources. Therefore, the No Project Alternative would result in a
cumulatively less than significant contribution to aesthetic impacts.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.1.6.2 AIR QUALITY
AQ-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would conflict with or
obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan.
2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan
The current Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) is the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. The primary goals
of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan are to attain the State and Federal AAQS, reduce population exposure
and protect public health in the Bay Area, and reduce GHG emissions and protect the climate. Bay Area Air
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-11
Quality Management District (BAAQMD) considers the Plan consistent with the AQMP in accordance with
the following:
Attain Air Quality Standards
BAAQMD’s 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan strategy is based on regional population and employment
projections within the Bay Area compiled by ABAG. Demographic trends incorporated into the Plan Bay
Area determine vehicle miles traveled (VMT) within the Bay Area, which BAAQMD utilizes to forecast
future air quality trends. The San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin (SFBAAB) is designated as a nonattainment
area for Ozone (O3), fine inhalable particulate matter (PM2.5), and coarse inhalable particulate matter
(PM10) (State ambient air quality standards (AAQS) only). As discussed in Chapter 4.11, Population and
Housing, of this Draft EIR, the growth projections for the City of Cupertino would exceed the employment
projections identified by ABAG. ABAG forecasts the population in Cupertino could grow to 71,700 by
2040.1 The buildout projections resulting from future development under the No Project Alternative
estimates that the residential population could grow to 63,873 by 2040. Therefore, additional residential
population resulting from implementation of the No Project Alternative would not exceed regional
projections (7,827 fewer residents). With respect to employment, ABAG forecasts 33,260 employees in the
City of Cupertino in 2040.2 Buildout of the No Project Alternative would not exceed the regional
projections (2,412 fewer employees). Growth under the No Project Alternative would come incrementally
over approximately 26 years and would be guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with
many of the principal goals and objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area. The
General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure coordination with regional
agencies on regional planning initiatives. Policy 5-4, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, requires the
City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Supporting Strategy 3 would require the City to assess the potential for air pollution effects of
future land use and transportation planning, to ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of
improving air quality. The Circulation Element also includes policies regarding coordination with regional
transportation planning agencies. Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, would
ensure that the City actively participate in developing regional approaches to meeting the transportation
needs of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley. Growth under the No Project Alternative would be
consistent with the regional planning objectives established for the Bay Area. Consequently, emissions within
the City of Cupertino are included in BAAQMD’s projections, and future development under the No
Project Alternative through horizon year 2040 would not hinder BAAQMD’s ability to attain the California
or National AAQS. Accordingly, impacts would be less than significant.
Reduce Population Exposure and Protect Public Health
The City of Cupertino is already largely developed. Future growth under the No Project Alternative would
be accommodated through redevelopment of infill sites. As identified in the discussion of community risk
and hazards (see Impact AQ-4 below), new sensitive land uses could be proximate to major sources of Toxic
Air Contaminants (TACs), and new industrial/commercial land uses could generate an increase in TACs.
1 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014, Plan Bay Area Projections 2013.
2 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014, Plan Bay Area Projections 2013.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-12 JUNE 18, 2014
Adherence to BAAQMD regulations would ensure new sources of TACs do not expose populations to
significant health risk; however, siting of land uses proximate to major sources of air pollution is outside the
control of BAAQMD. These impacts are addressed under Impact AQ-4, below. Implementation of current
and amended General Plan policies, and strategies, and mitigation to reduce community risk and hazards
listed in AQ-4 below would ensure these impacts are would be less than significant.
Reduce GHG Emissions and Protect the Climate
The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions impacts of the No Project Alternative are discussed in Chapter 4.6,
Greenhouse Gas Emissions, of this Draft EIR. Goals and policies have been incorporated within the No
Project Alternative, as identified in Chapter 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, of this Draft EIR, to reduce
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and associated GHG emissions. In addition, the City of Cupertino is also
preparing a Climate Action Plan (CAP) to reduce community-wide GHG emissions.
The current and amended General Plan policies and strategies would also reduce GHG emissions, as
described in more detail in Chapter 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, of this Draft EIR. Future development
under the No Project Alternative would be required to adhere to statewide measures that have been adopted
to achieve the GHG reduction targets of Assembly Bill 32. In addition, the No Project Alternative is
consistent with regional strategies for infill development identified by the Metropolitan Transportation
Commission (MTC)/ABAG in the Plan Bay Area. Consequently, the No Project Alternative is consistent
with the goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan to reduce GHG emissions and protect the climate. As
identified above, the No Project Alternative would support the goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan.
New policies would be introduced as part of the No Project Alternative to minimize impacts. Impacts would
be less than significant.
Include applicable control measures from the AQMP
Table 5.1-3 identifies the control measures included in the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan, and, as shown,
implementation of the No Project Alternative goals, policies, and actions in Table 5.1-3 would ensure that
the No Project Alternative would be consistent with the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan and that the impacts
due to inconsistency would be less than significant.
Disrupt or hinder implementation of any AQMP control measures
Table 5.1-3 identifies the control measures included in the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. As identified in the
table, the No Project Alternative would not hinder BAAQMD from implementing the control measures in
the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. Impacts are less than significant.
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En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
SS
M
16
– Re
v
i
s
e
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
2,
Ru
l
e
2:
Ne
w
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
SS
M
17
– Re
v
i
s
e
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
2,
Ru
l
e
5 Ne
w
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
fo
r
Ai
r
To
x
i
c
s
SS
M
18
– Re
v
i
s
e
Ai
r
To
x
i
c
s
“H
o
t
Sp
o
t
”
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
St
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ar
e
so
u
r
c
e
s
regulated directly by
BA
A
Q
M
D
.
To
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
control measures, BAAQMD
ad
o
p
t
s
/
r
e
v
i
s
e
s
ru
l
e
s
or
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
control measures and reduce
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
s
.
Be
c
a
u
s
e
BAAQMD is the implementing
ag
e
n
c
y
,
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
so
u
r
c
e
s
of
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
sources in the City would
be
re
q
u
i
r
e
d
to
co
m
p
l
y
wi
t
h
th
e
s
e
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
in
the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air
Pl
a
n
.
Mo
b
i
l
e
So
u
r
c
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
MS
M
A‐1 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Cl
e
a
n
,
fu
e
l
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Li
g
h
t
& Me
d
i
u
m
‐Du
t
y
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
MS
M
A‐2 – Ze
r
o
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
an
d
Pl
u
g
‐in
Hy
b
r
i
d
s
MS
M
A‐3 – Gr
e
e
n
Fl
e
e
t
s
(L
i
g
h
t
Me
d
i
u
m
& He
a
v
y
‐Du
t
y
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
)
MS
M
A‐4 – Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
or
Re
p
a
i
r
of
Hi
g
h
Em
i
t
t
i
n
g
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
MS
M
B‐1 – HD
V
Fl
e
e
t
Mo
d
e
r
n
i
z
a
t
i
o
n
MS
M
B‐2 – Lo
w
NO
x Re
t
r
o
f
i
t
s
fo
r
In
‐Us
e
En
g
i
n
e
s
MS
M
B‐3 – Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Dr
i
v
e
Tr
a
i
n
s
MS
M
C‐1 – Co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
an
d
Fa
r
m
i
n
g
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
MS
M
C‐2 – La
w
n
& Ga
r
d
e
n
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
MS
M
C‐3 – Re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Ve
s
s
e
l
s
Mo
b
i
l
e
So
u
r
c
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
re
d
u
c
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
by accelerating the
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
of
ol
d
e
r
,
di
r
t
i
e
r
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
an
d
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
,
through programs such as the
BA
A
Q
M
D
’
s
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
Bu
y
‐Ba
c
k
an
d
Sm
o
k
i
n
g
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
,
and promoting
ad
v
a
n
c
e
d
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
y
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
th
a
t
re
d
u
c
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
The implementation of these
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
re
l
y
he
a
v
i
l
y
up
o
n
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
,
su
c
h
as the Carl Moyer Program
an
d
th
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Fu
n
d
fo
r
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
,
to
ac
h
i
e
v
e
voluntary emission reductions
in
ad
v
a
n
c
e
of
,
or
in
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
to
,
CA
R
B
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
CA
R
B
has new regulations that
re
q
u
i
r
e
th
e
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
or
re
t
r
o
f
i
t
of
on
‐ro
a
d
tr
u
c
k
s
,
construction equipment, and
ot
h
e
r
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
th
a
t
is
di
e
s
e
l
po
w
e
r
e
d
.
Th
e
No Project Alternative would
no
t
hi
n
d
e
r
th
e
ab
i
l
i
t
y
of
BA
A
Q
M
D
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
s
e
regional programs.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
TC
M
A‐1 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Lo
c
a
l
an
d
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Ra
i
l
Se
r
v
i
c
e
TC
M
A‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Lo
c
a
l
an
d
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Ra
i
l
Se
r
v
i
c
e
TC
M
B‐1 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Fr
e
e
w
a
y
Pe
r
f
o
r
m
a
n
c
e
In
i
t
i
a
t
i
v
e
TC
M
B‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
Us
e
TC
M
B‐3 – Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Ex
p
r
e
s
s
La
n
d
Ne
t
w
o
r
k
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
(T
C
M
)
ar
e
st
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
to reduce vehicle trips,
ve
h
i
c
l
e
us
e
,
VM
T
,
ve
h
i
c
l
e
id
l
i
n
g
,
or
tr
a
f
f
i
c
co
n
g
e
s
t
i
o
n
fo
r
the purpose of reducing
mo
t
o
r
ve
h
i
c
l
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
Wh
i
l
e
mo
s
t
of
th
e
TC
M
s
ar
e
implemented at the regional
le
v
e
l
—
t
h
a
t
is
,
by
th
e
MT
C
or
Ca
l
t
r
a
n
s
—
t
h
e
r
e
ar
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
for which the 2010 Bay
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
re
l
i
e
s
up
o
n
lo
c
a
l
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
to
as
s
i
s
t
with implementation.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
5.
1
-
1
4
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
TC
M
B‐4 – Go
o
d
s
Mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
C‐1 – Su
p
p
o
r
t
Vo
l
u
n
t
a
r
y
Em
p
l
o
y
e
r
‐Ba
s
e
d
Tr
i
p
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
TC
M
C‐2 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Sa
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
to
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
an
d
Sa
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
to
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
TC
M
C‐3 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Ri
d
e
s
h
a
r
e
Se
r
v
i
c
e
an
d
In
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
TC
M
C‐4 – Co
n
d
u
c
t
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ou
t
r
e
a
c
h
an
d
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
TC
M
C‐5 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Sm
a
r
t
Dr
i
v
i
n
g
/
S
p
e
e
d
Mo
d
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
TC
M
D‐1 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Ac
c
e
s
s
an
d
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
TC
M
D‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ac
c
e
s
s
an
d
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
TC
M
D‐3 – Su
p
p
o
r
t
Lo
c
a
l
La
n
d
Us
e
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
E‐1 – Va
l
u
e
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
E‐2 Pa
r
k
i
n
g
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
an
d
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
TC
M
E‐3 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
Re
f
o
r
m
Th
e
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
related to transportation
an
d
la
n
d
us
e
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
as
s
i
s
t
BA
A
Q
M
D
in
me
e
t
i
n
g
th
e
regional goals of the 2010
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
:
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐1:
Fo
c
u
s
e
d
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
in
Ma
j
o
r
Mi
x
e
d
‐Use Special Areas. In the major
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
wh
e
r
e
of
f
i
c
e
,
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
,
and residential uses are
al
l
o
w
e
d
,
fo
c
u
s
hi
g
h
e
r
in
t
e
n
s
i
t
y
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
an
d
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
building heights
wh
e
r
e
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
in
de
s
i
g
n
a
t
e
d
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
,
ga
t
e
w
a
y
s
,
sub areas and nodes.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐2:
Co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
Be
t
w
e
e
n
Ma
j
o
r
Mi
x
e
d
‐Us
e
Special Areas, Employment
Ce
n
t
e
r
s
an
d
th
e
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
st
r
o
n
g
co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
between the major
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
,
em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
ce
n
t
e
r
s
,
an
d
the surrounding community.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐2.
1
.
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
Co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
En
h
a
n
c
e
pedestrian and bicycle
co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
th
e
ma
j
o
r
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
and employment centers to
su
r
r
o
u
n
d
i
n
g
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐2.
2
.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ac
c
e
s
s
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bicycle paths through new
an
d
re
d
e
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
to
en
h
a
n
c
e
pu
b
l
i
c
ac
c
e
s
s
to and through the
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐19
:
Jo
b
s
/
H
o
u
s
i
n
g
Ba
l
a
n
c
e
.
St
r
i
v
e
fo
r
a mo
r
e
balanced ratio of jobs and
ho
u
s
i
n
g
un
i
t
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐19
.
1
.
Ho
u
s
i
n
g
an
d
Mi
x
e
d
‐Us
e
.
St
r
i
v
e
to
achieve a balanced
jo
b
s
/
h
o
u
s
i
n
g
ra
t
i
o
ba
s
e
d
on
th
e
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
contained in the Housing
El
e
m
e
n
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐19
.
2
.
Ho
u
s
i
n
g
Im
p
a
c
t
on
Lo
c
a
l
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
.
Since the quality of Cupertino
sc
h
o
o
l
s
(e
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
r
y
an
d
hi
g
h
sc
h
o
o
l
)
is
a pr
i
m
a
r
y
as
s
e
t
of the City, care shall be
ta
k
e
n
to
en
s
u
r
e
an
y
ne
w
ho
u
s
i
n
g
wi
l
l
no
t
ad
v
e
r
s
e
l
y
impact these systems.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐26
:
He
a
r
t
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
.
Cr
e
a
t
e
a positive and memorable
im
a
g
e
al
o
n
g
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bo
u
l
e
v
a
r
d
of
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
development; enhanced
ac
t
i
v
i
t
y
ga
t
e
w
a
y
s
an
d
no
d
e
s
;
an
d
sa
f
e
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
circulation and access for all
mo
d
e
s
of
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐26
.
1
.
He
a
r
t
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
Sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
Pl
a
n
.
Ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
the Heart of the City
Sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
Pl
a
n
as
th
e
pr
i
m
a
r
y
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
to
o
l
fo
r
the City to use for this area.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐26
.
2
.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Ca
l
m
i
n
g
.
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
op
t
i
o
n
s
on
Stevens Creek Boulevard to
im
p
r
o
v
e
th
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
by
pr
o
a
c
t
i
v
e
l
y
managing speed limits and
tr
a
f
f
i
c
si
g
n
a
l
sy
n
c
h
r
o
n
i
z
a
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐57
:
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ac
c
e
s
s
.
Cr
e
a
t
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ac
c
e
s
s
between new
su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
s
an
d
sc
h
o
o
l
si
t
e
s
.
Re
v
i
e
w
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
circulation plans to
im
p
r
o
v
e
sa
f
e
t
y
an
d
ac
c
e
s
s
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
i
s
t
s
to school sites, including
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.1-15
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
co
m
p
l
e
t
i
n
g
ac
c
e
s
s
i
b
l
e
ne
t
w
o
r
k
of
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
an
d
pa
t
h
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐57
.
1
.
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Guidelines. Implement the
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
a
t
i
o
n
s
of
th
e
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Plan to develop a
Ci
t
y
tr
a
i
l
/
p
e
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
li
n
k
a
g
e
be
t
w
e
e
n
ma
j
o
r
mi
x
e
d
‐use Special Areas,
em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
ce
n
t
e
r
s
,
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
,
an
d
ma
j
o
r
op
e
n
space areas.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐57
.
2
.
Tr
a
i
l
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
tr
a
i
l
projects described in this
el
e
m
e
n
t
.
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
an
y
sa
f
e
t
y
,
se
c
u
r
i
t
y
an
d
pr
i
v
a
c
y
im
p
a
c
t
s
and mitigations
as
s
o
c
i
a
t
e
d
wi
t
h
tr
a
i
l
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
af
f
e
c
t
e
d
neighborhoods in locating
tr
a
i
l
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2‐57
.
3
.
De
d
i
c
a
t
e
d
Tr
a
i
l
s
or
Ea
s
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
dedication or easements
fo
r
tr
a
i
l
s
,
as
we
l
l
as
th
e
i
r
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
,
as
pa
r
t
of
the development process,
wh
e
r
e
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐1:
Ci
t
y
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
o
n
in
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Planning Participate
ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
in
de
v
e
l
o
p
i
n
g
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
ap
p
r
o
a
c
h
e
s
to
me
e
t
i
n
g
the transportation needs
of
th
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
.
Wo
r
k
cl
o
s
e
l
y
with neighboring
ju
r
i
s
d
i
c
t
i
o
n
s
an
d
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
re
s
p
o
n
s
i
b
l
e
fo
r
ro
a
d
w
a
y
s
,
transit facilities and transit
se
r
v
i
c
e
s
in
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐1.
1
.
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
.
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
in regional
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
in
or
d
e
r
to
mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
ad
v
e
r
s
e
impacts on Cupertino’s
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
al
l
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
with the goals and
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
of
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
’
s
Ge
n
e
r
a
l
Pl
a
n
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
i
n
g
cities to address
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
la
n
d
us
e
is
s
u
e
s
of
mu
t
u
a
l
interest.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐1.
2
.
Jo
b
s
–
H
o
u
s
i
n
g
Ba
l
a
n
c
e
.
Mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
traffic impacts on
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
by
su
p
p
o
r
t
i
n
g
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to manage the jobs‐housing
ba
l
a
n
c
e
th
r
o
u
g
h
o
u
t
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Co
u
n
t
y
an
d
th
e
Si
l
i
c
o
n
Valley.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐1.
3
.
In
t
e
r
c
h
a
n
g
e
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
potential interchange
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
,
su
c
h
as
I‐28
0
wi
t
h
th
e
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
r
e
s
s
w
a
y
and Stevens Creek
Bo
u
l
e
v
a
r
d
,
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
us
e
of
th
e
fr
e
e
w
a
y
and reduce the use of
lo
c
a
l
st
r
e
e
t
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐1.
4
.
Co
n
g
e
s
t
i
o
n
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
(C
M
P
)
.
Actively participate in the
pr
e
p
a
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
CM
P
an
d
ot
h
e
r
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
ef
f
o
r
t
s
to
control traffic congestion
an
d
li
m
i
t
ai
r
po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐1.
5
.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Im
p
a
c
t
An
a
l
y
s
i
s
(T
I
A
)
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
TIA reports that meet the
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
VT
A
fo
r
al
l
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
pr
o
j
e
c
t
e
d
to generate more than
10
0
tr
i
p
s
in
th
e
mo
r
n
i
n
g
or
af
t
e
r
n
o
o
n
pe
a
k
ho
u
r
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐1.
6
.
Mu
l
t
i
‐mo
d
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
En
s
u
r
e
that connections are provided
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
5.
1
-
1
6
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
to
en
a
b
l
e
tr
a
v
e
l
e
r
s
to
tr
a
n
s
i
t
i
o
n
fr
o
m
on
e
mo
d
e
of
transportation to another, e.g.
bi
c
y
c
l
e
to
bu
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐1.
7
.
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Bu
s
an
d
Ra
p
i
d
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Se
r
v
i
c
e
.
Support the expansion of
th
e
VT
A
’
s
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
bu
s
tr
a
n
s
i
t
sy
s
t
e
m
an
d
ex
t
e
n
s
i
o
n
of bus and/or light rail rapid
tr
a
n
s
i
t
in
t
o
th
e
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
an
d
De
An
z
a
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Areas to fulfill the “spoke and
wh
e
e
l
”
tr
a
n
s
i
t
sy
s
t
e
m
de
s
i
g
n
e
d
to
se
r
v
e
al
l
of
Sa
n
t
a
Clara County. Specific actions
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
i
s
st
r
a
t
e
g
y
ar
e
:
Re
v
i
e
w
al
l
ri
g
h
t
‐of
‐wa
y
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
fo
r
potential opportunities and
co
n
s
t
r
a
i
n
t
s
to
ra
p
i
d
tr
a
n
s
i
t
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
hi
g
h
e
r
de
n
s
i
t
y
an
d
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
in rapid transit
co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
an
d
en
s
u
r
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
ar
e
de
s
i
g
n
e
d
to enhance the use of
tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
Se
e
k
th
e
co
o
p
e
r
a
t
i
v
e
su
p
p
o
r
t
of
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
,
pr
o
p
e
r
t
y
owners and businesses in
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
ra
p
i
d
tr
a
n
s
i
t
ex
t
e
n
s
i
o
n
s
.
Ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
se
e
k
to
ha
v
e
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
re
p
r
e
s
e
n
t
We
s
t
Valley cities and ultimately
ch
a
i
r
th
e
VT
A
Bo
a
r
d
of
Di
r
e
c
t
o
r
s
to
pr
o
m
o
t
e
th
e
above policy.
Ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
El
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐2:
Re
d
u
c
e
d
Re
l
i
a
n
c
e
on the Use of Single‐
Oc
c
u
p
a
n
t
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
a ge
n
e
r
a
l
de
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
reliance on private, mostly
si
n
g
l
e
‐oc
c
u
p
a
n
t
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
(S
O
V
)
by
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
i
n
g
at
t
r
a
c
t
i
v
e
alternatives.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐2.
1
.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
to
th
e
SO
V
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the use of alternatives to the
SO
V
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
ca
r
‐po
o
l
i
n
g
,
us
e
of
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
,
bicycling and walking.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐2.
2
.
TS
M
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
TS
M
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
for employees in both
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
se
c
t
o
r
s
by
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
pr
e
f
e
r
r
e
d
parking for carpools,
pr
o
v
i
d
i
n
g
bu
s
pa
s
s
e
s
,
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
i
n
g
co
m
p
r
e
s
s
e
d
wo
r
k
w
e
e
k
s
,
and providing
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
an
d
re
w
a
r
d
s
fo
r
bi
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
wa
l
k
i
n
g
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐2.
3
.
Te
l
e
c
o
m
m
u
t
i
n
g
,
Te
l
e
c
o
n
f
e
r
e
n
c
i
n
g
an
d
Other Electronic
Co
m
m
u
n
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
em
p
l
o
y
e
r
s
to
us
e
th
e
in
t
e
r
n
e
t
to reduce commute
tr
a
v
e
l
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
sc
h
o
o
l
s
,
pa
r
t
i
c
u
l
a
r
l
y
at
th
e
co
l
l
e
g
e
and high school levels, to
ma
k
e
ma
x
i
m
u
m
us
e
of
th
e
in
t
e
r
n
e
t
to
li
m
i
t
th
e
ne
e
d
to travel to and from the
ca
m
p
u
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐2.
4
.
De
s
i
g
n
of
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
new commercial
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
sh
a
r
e
d
of
f
i
c
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
ca
f
e
t
e
r
i
a
s
,
day‐care facilities,
lu
n
c
h
r
o
o
m
s
,
sh
o
w
e
r
s
,
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
,
ho
m
e
of
f
i
c
e
s
,
shuttle buses to transit
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
th
a
t
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
us
e
of transit, bicycling, walking
or
te
l
e
c
o
m
m
u
t
i
n
g
as
co
m
m
u
t
e
mo
d
e
s
to
wo
r
k
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
pedestrian pathways and
or
i
e
n
t
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
to
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
activity.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.1-17
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐2.
5
.
St
r
e
e
t
Sp
a
c
e
fo
r
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
Provide space on
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
st
r
e
e
t
s
fo
r
bu
s
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
or
sa
f
e
an
d
ac
c
e
s
s
i
b
l
e
bike lanes or
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
pa
t
h
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐2.
6
.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Use the Cupertino Scene
an
d
ot
h
e
r
me
d
i
a
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
on
alternatives to the SOV.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐2.
7
.
Ci
t
i
z
e
n
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
o
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
wo
r
k
with the City
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
/
P
e
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ad
v
i
s
o
r
y
Co
m
m
i
t
t
e
e
,
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
groups and residents to
el
i
m
i
n
a
t
e
ha
z
a
r
d
s
an
d
ba
r
r
i
e
r
s
to
bi
c
y
c
l
e
an
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
transportation.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐3:
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
and the Cupertino
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
and projects
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
e
d
in
th
e
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Guidelines and in the
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
,
as
we
l
l
as
ot
h
e
r
programs that promote
th
i
s
go
a
l
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
1
.
Th
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
the projects recommended
in
th
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
:
Af
t
e
r
en
g
i
n
e
e
r
i
n
g
re
v
i
e
w
,
an
d
wh
e
r
e
fo
u
n
d
to
be
feasible, improve safety at
se
l
e
c
t
e
d
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
by
on
e
or
mo
r
e
of
th
e
fo
l
l
o
w
i
n
g
:
prohibit right turn‐ on‐
re
d
,
ad
d
ti
m
e
to
th
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
si
g
n
a
l
ph
a
s
e
,
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
a median and/or
re
d
u
c
e
co
r
n
e
r
ra
d
i
i
.
Wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
pr
o
v
i
d
e
mi
s
s
i
n
g
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
on
ar
t
e
r
i
a
l
and collector streets and
on
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
st
r
e
e
t
s
as
de
s
i
r
e
d
by
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
a ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
gr
i
d
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
shortcuts, pathways
an
d
br
i
d
g
e
s
,
wh
e
r
e
ne
e
d
e
d
,
to
cl
o
s
e
ga
p
s
in
th
e
pedestrian circulation system.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
2
.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Gr
i
d
.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
de
v
e
l
o
p
i
n
g
a quarter‐mile grid of safe,
wa
l
k
‐ab
l
e
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
an
d
pa
t
h
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
access among residential,
sh
o
p
p
i
n
g
,
re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
3
.
Sa
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
to
Sc
h
o
o
l
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
School Districts to promote
th
e
Sa
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
to
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
4
.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ti
m
e
on
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Si
g
n
a
l
s
.
With engineering review,
pr
o
v
i
d
e
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
ti
m
e
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
to
cr
o
s
s
st
r
e
e
t
s
at appropriate
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
Ad
d
e
d
ti
m
e
wo
u
l
d
be
mo
s
t
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
near shopping districts,
sc
h
o
o
l
s
an
d
se
n
i
o
r
ci
t
i
z
e
n
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Th
i
s
st
r
a
t
e
g
y
should be considered even
if
it
co
u
l
d
re
d
u
c
e
th
e
Le
v
e
l
of
Se
r
v
i
c
e
(L
O
S
)
fo
r
au
t
o
m
o
b
i
l
e
traffic.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
5
.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
To
en
h
a
n
c
e
walking, consider various
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
to
ro
a
d
w
a
y
s
to
ma
k
e
th
e
m
mo
r
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
friendly and less
au
t
o
‐ce
n
t
r
i
c
.
Wh
e
r
e
a me
d
i
a
n
is
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
,
it
sh
o
u
l
d
be wide enough to safely
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
5.
1
-
1
8
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
.
St
r
e
e
t
s
su
c
h
as
Ho
m
e
s
t
e
a
d
,
Bollinger, Rainbow,
Pr
o
s
p
e
c
t
or
St
e
l
l
i
n
g
sh
o
u
l
d
be
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
d
fo
r
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
improvements for
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
.
Wo
r
k
i
n
g
wi
t
h
th
e
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
,
co
n
s
i
d
e
r
reducing residential street
wi
d
t
h
s
to
pr
o
m
o
t
e
sl
o
w
e
r
tr
a
f
f
i
c
an
d
le
s
s
pe
r
v
i
o
u
s
surface.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
6
.
Cr
o
s
s
w
a
l
k
Ma
r
k
i
n
g
,
Me
d
i
a
n
s
,
an
d
“C
h
o
k
e
r
s
.
”
Following
en
g
i
n
e
e
r
i
n
g
re
v
i
e
w
,
ma
r
k
cr
o
s
s
w
a
l
k
s
wi
t
h
pa
v
e
m
e
n
t
treatment scaled to the
sp
e
e
d
of
tr
a
f
f
i
c
.
Us
e
me
d
i
a
n
s
an
d
“c
h
o
k
e
r
s
”
to
na
r
r
o
w
the width of the street
wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
an
d
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
7
.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
/
B
i
c
y
c
l
e
Im
p
a
c
t
St
a
t
e
m
e
n
t
(PBIS). Encourage all public
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
to
su
b
m
i
t
a PBIS. For projects that
re
q
u
i
r
e
a TI
A
,
th
e
PB
I
S
ma
y
be
in
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
d
in
t
o
th
e
TIA. The impact of the
pr
o
j
e
c
t
on
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
s
sh
a
l
l
be
re
p
o
r
t
e
d
in terms of safety, route
co
n
n
e
c
t
i
v
i
t
y
,
lo
s
s
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
ad
e
q
u
a
c
y
of
proposed facilities, and
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
ad
v
e
r
s
e
im
p
a
c
t
of
pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
/
b
i
c
y
c
l
e
programs on
au
t
o
m
o
b
i
l
e
tr
a
f
f
i
c
an
d
vi
c
e
ve
r
s
a
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
8
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Pl
a
n
.
Implement the Bikeway
Ne
t
w
o
r
k
as
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
e
d
in
th
e
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Pl
a
n
.
Th
e
Network is shown in Figure 4B
[o
f
th
e
Ge
n
e
r
a
l
Pl
a
n
]
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
9
.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
in
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Encourage the developers
of
ma
j
o
r
ne
w
or
re
m
o
d
e
l
e
d
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
to
in
c
l
u
d
e
se
c
u
r
e
interior and/or fully
we
a
t
h
e
r
pr
o
t
e
c
t
e
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
1
0
.
T
r
a
f
f
i
c
Ca
l
m
i
n
g
on
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
.
Where feasible and
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
,
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
tr
a
f
f
i
c
ca
l
m
i
n
g
on
th
o
s
e
bi
c
y
c
l
e
routes where automobile
tr
a
f
f
i
c
vo
l
u
m
e
s
ar
e
lo
w
.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
tr
a
f
f
i
c
fl
o
w
s
be
s
t
wh
e
r
e
automobile traffic volume
an
d
sp
e
e
d
s
ar
e
lo
w
an
d
wh
e
r
e
th
e
r
e
ar
e
no
st
o
p
si
g
n
s
or traffic signals to hinder
th
r
o
u
g
h
tr
a
f
f
i
c
fl
o
w
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐3.
1
1
.
B
i
c
y
c
l
e
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
in multi‐family residential
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
in
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
as
re
q
u
i
r
e
d
under Section 19.100.040
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
co
d
e
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐4:
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
i
l
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
plan and provide for a
co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
sy
s
t
e
m
of
tr
a
i
l
s
an
d
pa
t
h
w
a
y
s
co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
t
with regional systems,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
th
e
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
,
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
and Ridge Trail. The General
Al
i
g
n
m
e
n
t
of
th
e
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
,
as
sh
o
w
n
in
th
e
As
s
o
c
i
a
t
i
o
n
of Bay Area Governments’
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
do
c
u
m
e
n
t
,
is
in
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
d
in
th
e
General Plan by reference.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐5:
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
Us
e
of
Pu
b
l
i
c
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Su
p
p
o
r
t
and encourage the increased
us
e
of
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.1-19
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐5.
1
.
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
in
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Ensure all new
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
in
c
l
u
d
e
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
to
su
p
p
o
r
t
public transit such as: bus
st
o
p
sh
e
l
t
e
r
s
;
sp
a
c
e
fo
r
tr
a
n
s
i
t
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
to
st
o
p
an
d
maneuver as needed; transit
ma
p
s
an
d
sc
h
e
d
u
l
e
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
a
l
developments to
su
p
p
o
r
t
bu
s
pa
s
s
e
s
fo
r
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐5.
3
.
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
St
o
p
Am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
VTA and adjacent property
ow
n
e
r
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
at
t
r
a
c
t
i
v
e
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
su
c
h
as
se
a
t
i
n
g
,
lighting and signage at all
bu
s
st
o
p
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐5.
4
.
Va
l
l
c
o
Pa
r
k
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
St
a
t
i
o
n
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
the VTA to study and
de
v
e
l
o
p
a tr
a
n
s
i
t
tr
a
n
s
f
e
r
st
a
t
i
o
n
at
Va
l
l
c
o
Pa
r
k
.
An
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
a multi‐modal station
th
a
t
se
r
v
e
s
fu
t
u
r
e
li
g
h
t
ra
i
l
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐5.
5
.
Ra
p
i
d
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
VT
A
to
plan for and develop bus
an
d
/
o
r
li
g
h
t
ra
i
l
ra
p
i
d
tr
a
n
s
i
t
se
r
v
i
c
e
s
in
th
e
St
e
v
e
n
s
Creek and north De Anza
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
to
ta
k
e
ad
v
a
n
t
a
g
e
of
th
e
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
in mixed‐use activities
in
th
e
De
An
z
a
Co
l
l
e
g
e
cu
s
t
o
m
e
r
ba
s
e
.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
frequency of service to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ri
d
e
r
s
h
i
p
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐5.
6
.
Sh
u
t
t
l
e
Se
r
v
i
c
e
.
St
u
d
y
th
e
po
s
s
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
of providing shuttle service to
ke
y
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
,
of
f
i
c
e
an
d
in
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
a
l
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
in
Cupertino.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐7:
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Se
r
v
i
c
e
an
d
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
Ne
e
d
s
Ba
l
a
n
c
e
the needs of
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
wi
t
h
de
s
i
r
e
d
tr
a
f
f
i
c
se
r
v
i
c
e
.
Wh
e
r
e
ne
c
e
s
s
a
r
y
and appropriate, allow
a lo
w
e
r
e
d
LO
S
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
to
be
t
t
e
r
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
on major streets
an
d
at
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐7.
1
.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Si
g
n
a
l
Wa
l
k
Ti
m
e
s
.
Th
i
s
st
r
a
t
e
g
y
is described in Policy 4‐3.
Ad
d
e
d
ti
m
e
on
wa
l
k
si
g
n
s
wo
u
l
d
be
mo
s
t
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
near shopping districts,
sc
h
o
o
l
s
an
d
se
n
i
o
r
ci
t
i
z
e
n
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐10
:
St
r
e
e
t
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
Pl
a
n
st
r
e
e
t
improvements such as curb
cu
t
s
,
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
,
bu
s
st
o
p
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
bu
s
sh
e
l
t
e
r
s
,
li
g
h
t
poles, benches and trash
co
n
t
a
i
n
e
r
s
as
an
in
t
e
g
r
a
l
pa
r
t
of
a pr
o
j
e
c
t
to
en
s
u
r
e
an enhanced streetscape and
th
e
sa
f
e
mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
of
pe
o
p
l
e
an
d
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
wi
t
h
th
e
least possible disruption to
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
s
c
a
p
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐10
.
1
.
Si
d
e
w
a
l
k
Ac
c
e
s
s
to
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
or
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
.
Examine sidewalk to
pa
r
k
i
n
g
ar
e
a
s
or
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
s
at
th
e
ti
m
e
in
d
i
v
i
d
u
a
l
sites develop to
re
g
u
l
a
t
e
th
e
en
t
r
y
to
th
e
si
t
e
at
a ce
n
t
r
a
l
po
i
n
t
.
Si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
in the Crossroads Area
sh
a
l
l
be
wi
d
e
en
o
u
g
h
to
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
activity.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐10
.
2
.
Bu
s
St
o
p
Tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
in
St
r
e
e
t
Fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
s
.
Require bus stop
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
or
pa
r
t
i
a
l
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
wi
t
h
i
n
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
of a new or redeveloping
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
5.
1
-
2
0
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
si
t
e
.
Th
i
s
po
l
i
c
y
do
e
s
no
t
ap
p
l
y
to
th
e
Cr
o
s
s
r
o
a
d
s
Ar
e
a
.
Bus stops should include
be
n
c
h
e
s
,
tr
a
s
h
re
c
e
p
t
a
c
l
e
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
as
appropriate. Follow the VTA
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
fo
r
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
bu
s
st
o
p
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐11
:
Sa
f
e
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
Lo
t
s
Re
q
u
i
r
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
lo
t
s
that are safe for pedestrians.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐11
.
1
Sa
f
e
Sp
a
c
e
s
fo
r
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
parking lot design and
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
to
in
c
l
u
d
e
cl
e
a
r
l
y
de
f
i
n
e
d
sp
a
c
e
s
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
so that foot traffic
is
se
p
a
r
a
t
e
d
fr
o
m
th
e
ha
z
a
r
d
s
of
ca
r
tr
a
f
f
i
c
an
d
pe
o
p
l
e
are directed from their
ca
r
s
to
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
en
t
r
i
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐15
:
Sc
h
o
o
l
Im
p
a
c
t
s
on
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
Mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
the impact of school
dr
o
p
‐of
f
,
pi
c
k
‐up
an
d
pa
r
k
i
n
g
on
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4‐15
.
1
.
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
wi
t
h
Sc
h
o
o
l
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
.
Work with the School Districts
to
de
v
e
l
o
p
pl
a
n
s
an
d
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
th
a
t
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ca
r
/
v
a
n
‐pooling, stagger hours of
ad
j
a
c
e
n
t
sc
h
o
o
l
s
,
dr
o
p
‐of
f
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
wa
l
k
i
n
g
and bicycling to school.
As
s
i
s
t
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
in
th
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
of
th
e
“S
a
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
to School Program” to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
mo
r
e
st
u
d
e
n
t
s
wa
l
k
i
n
g
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
less use of auto access.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐2:
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Us
e
of
En
e
r
g
y
Resources Encourage the
ma
x
i
m
u
m
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
us
e
of
electrical power and natural
ga
s
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
s
,
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
,
industrial and public
us
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
1
0
.
E
n
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Mo
d
e
s
.
Encourage alternative,
en
e
r
g
y
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
mo
d
e
s
su
c
h
as
“c
l
e
a
n
”
multi‐modal public transit,
ca
r
an
d
va
n
p
o
o
l
i
n
g
,
fl
e
x
i
b
l
e
wo
r
k
ho
u
r
s
,
an
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
and bicycle paths.
La
n
d
Us
e
an
d
Lo
c
a
l
Im
p
a
c
t
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
LU
M
1 – Go
o
d
s
Mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
LU
M
2 – In
d
i
r
e
c
t
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
LU
M
3 – En
h
a
n
c
e
d
CE
Q
A
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
LU
M
4 – La
n
d
Us
e
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
LU
M
5 – Re
d
u
c
e
Ri
s
k
in
Im
p
a
c
t
e
d
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
LU
M
6 – En
h
a
n
c
e
d
Ai
r
Qu
a
l
i
t
y
Mo
n
i
t
o
r
i
n
g
Th
e
20
1
0
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
al
s
o
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
la
n
d
us
e
measures to reduce air
qu
a
l
i
t
y
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
an
d
/
o
r
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
ex
p
o
s
u
r
e
in
th
e
SF
B
A
A
B
.
The following policies
su
p
p
o
r
t
th
e
s
e
la
n
d
us
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
:
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐4:
Ai
r
Po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
Ef
f
e
c
t
s
of
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Minimize the air quality
im
p
a
c
t
s
of
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
an
d
th
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
affecting new
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐4.
1
.
To
x
i
c
Ai
r
Co
n
t
a
m
i
n
a
n
t
s
.
Re
v
i
e
w
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
for potential generation
of
to
x
i
c
ai
r
co
n
t
a
m
i
n
a
n
t
s
at
th
e
ti
m
e
of
ap
p
r
o
v
a
l
an
d
confer with BAAQMD on
co
n
t
r
o
l
s
ne
e
d
e
d
if
im
p
a
c
t
s
ar
e
un
c
e
r
t
a
i
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐4.
2
.
Du
s
t
Co
n
t
r
o
l
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
wa
t
e
r
ap
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
to non‐polluting dust
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
du
r
i
n
g
de
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
th
e
du
r
a
t
i
o
n
of the construction period.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐4.
3
.
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
De
c
i
s
i
o
n
s
.
As
s
e
s
s
th
e
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
for air pollution effects of
fu
t
u
r
e
la
n
d
us
e
an
d
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
,
an
d
en
s
u
r
e
that planning decisions
su
p
p
o
r
t
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
go
a
l
s
of
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.1-21
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐4.
4
.
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
v
i
e
w
.
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
th
e
relationship of sensitive
re
c
e
p
t
o
r
s
,
su
c
h
as
co
n
v
a
l
e
s
c
e
n
t
ho
s
p
i
t
a
l
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
uses, to pollution
so
u
r
c
e
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
as
s
e
s
s
m
e
n
t
of
new development.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐5:
Ai
r
Po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
Ef
f
e
c
t
s
of
Ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
Minimize the air quality
im
p
a
c
t
s
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐5.
1
.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
a citywide public education
pr
o
g
r
a
m
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
th
e
im
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
of
th
e
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Act and provide information
on
wa
y
s
to
re
d
u
c
e
an
d
co
n
t
r
o
l
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
;
pr
o
v
i
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
about carpooling
an
d
re
s
t
r
i
c
t
i
n
g
ph
y
s
i
c
a
l
ac
t
i
v
i
t
i
e
s
on
“S
p
a
r
e
th
e
Ai
r
”
high‐pollution days.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐5.
2
.
Ho
m
e
Oc
c
u
p
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
Ex
p
a
n
d
th
e
al
l
o
w
a
b
l
e
home occupations in
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
zo
n
e
d
pr
o
p
e
r
t
i
e
s
to
re
d
u
c
e
th
e
ne
e
d
to
commute to work.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐5.
3
.
Tr
e
e
Pl
a
n
t
i
n
g
.
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
pl
a
n
t
i
n
g
of
tr
e
e
s
on City property and
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
on
pr
i
v
a
t
e
pr
o
p
e
r
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐5.
4
.
Fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
.
Ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
Ci
t
y
use of fuel‐efficient and low
po
l
l
u
t
i
n
g
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐5.
5
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
Co
u
n
t
y
to
mo
n
i
t
o
r
an
d
in
f
l
u
e
n
c
e
improvement of
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
an
d
du
s
t
fr
o
m
th
e
Ha
n
s
o
n
an
d
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Quarries on the West
en
d
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐6:
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
Co
m
p
a
t
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
.
Mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
potential conflicts with
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
fr
o
m
no
i
s
e
,
tr
a
f
f
i
c
,
li
g
h
t
and visually intrusive
ef
f
e
c
t
s
fr
o
m
mo
r
e
in
t
e
n
s
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
wi
t
h
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
buffering setbacks,
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
,
wa
l
l
s
,
li
m
i
t
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
si
t
e
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
ot
h
e
r
appropriate measures.
Cr
e
a
t
e
zo
n
i
n
g
or
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
pl
a
n
s
th
a
t
re
d
u
c
e
in
c
o
m
p
a
t
i
b
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
between new
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
through measures such
as
:
da
y
l
i
g
h
t
pl
a
n
e
s
fo
r
si
n
g
l
e
‐fa
m
i
l
y
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
,
minimum setback standards,
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
e
sc
r
e
e
n
i
n
g
,
ac
o
u
s
t
i
c
a
l
an
a
l
y
s
i
s
,
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
and orientation of service
ar
e
a
s
aw
a
y
fr
o
m
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
us
e
s
an
d
li
m
i
t
a
t
i
o
n
s
on hours of operation.
Po
l
i
c
y
6‐29
:
Pr
o
x
i
m
i
t
y
of
Re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
to
Ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
Materials Assess future
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
’
ex
p
o
s
u
r
e
to
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
wh
e
n
new residential
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
of
ch
i
l
d
c
a
r
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
ar
e
pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
in existing industrial and
ma
n
u
f
a
c
t
u
r
i
n
g
ar
e
a
s
.
Do
no
t
al
l
o
w
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
if such hazardous
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
ca
n
n
o
t
be
mi
t
i
g
a
t
e
d
to
an
ac
c
e
p
t
a
b
l
e
level of risk.
En
e
r
g
y
an
d
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
EC
M
1 – En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
EC
M
2 – Re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
En
e
r
g
y
EC
M
3 – Ur
b
a
n
He
a
t
Is
l
a
n
d
Mi
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
Th
e
20
1
0
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
al
s
o
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
to reduce energy use,
wa
t
e
r
us
e
,
an
d
wa
s
t
e
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
.
Th
e
fo
l
l
o
w
i
n
g
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
support these energy
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
ot
h
e
r
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
:
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
5.
1
-
2
2
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
EC
M
4 – Tr
e
e
Pl
a
n
t
i
n
g
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐1:
Pr
i
n
c
i
p
l
e
s
of
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
In
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
th
e
principles of sustainability
in
t
o
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
’
s
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
an
d
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
sy
s
t
e
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐1.
1
.
Ap
p
o
i
n
t
a Ta
s
k
Fo
r
c
e
or
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
to develop an appropriate
co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
an
n
u
a
l
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
an
d
Re
s
o
u
r
c
e
Plan for the City. The mission
fo
r
th
e
Ta
s
k
Fo
r
c
e
/
C
o
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
wo
u
l
d
be
:
a.
Wr
i
t
e
an
d
ke
e
p
cu
r
r
e
n
t
th
e
an
n
u
a
l
Ta
c
t
i
c
a
l
Pl
a
n
and measurement of citywide
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
he
l
p
ac
h
i
e
v
e
th
e
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
and Sustainability
se
c
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
Ge
n
e
r
a
l
Pl
a
n
.
b.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
an
d
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
,
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
i
e
s
,
pr
o
d
u
c
t
s
and the lifecycle cost
of
ow
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
fo
r
ea
c
h
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
e
d
.
c.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
Ci
t
y
st
a
f
f
to
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
th
e
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
fe
a
s
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
of the
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐1.
2
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Ad
o
p
t
an
d
implement energy policies
an
d
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
th
a
t
in
c
l
u
d
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
planning and regulatory
pr
o
c
e
s
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐1.
3
.
Ci
t
y
‐Wi
d
e
In
v
e
n
t
o
r
y
.
Co
n
d
u
c
t
a ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
sustainability inventory in
or
d
e
r
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
is
s
u
e
s
,
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
an
d
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
alternatives.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐1.
4
.
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
En
e
r
g
y
an
d
Wa
t
e
r
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Plan. Prepare and
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
en
e
r
g
y
plan as a part of the City’s
Ge
n
e
r
a
l
Pl
a
n
.
Th
i
s
pl
a
n
wi
l
l
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
a
l
l
y
in
c
l
u
d
e
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
a
t
i
o
n
s
regarding:
a.
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
u
m
p
t
i
o
n
.
b.
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
fo
s
s
i
l
fu
e
l
s
.
c.
Us
e
of
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
wh
e
n
e
v
e
r
po
s
s
i
b
l
e
.
d.
Im
p
r
o
v
e
ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
wa
t
e
r
us
a
g
e
an
d
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
n
c
y
.
e.
Re
d
u
c
e
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
u
m
p
t
i
o
n
by
th
e
Ci
t
y
.
f.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
wa
t
e
r
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐1.
5
.
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Ga
r
d
e
n
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
gardens, which
pr
o
v
i
d
e
a mo
r
e
li
v
a
b
l
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
by
co
n
t
r
o
l
l
i
n
g
physical factors such as
te
m
p
e
r
a
t
u
r
e
,
no
i
s
e
,
an
d
po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐2:
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Us
e
of
En
e
r
g
y
Resources Encourage the
ma
x
i
m
u
m
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
us
e
of
electrical power and natural
ga
s
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
s
,
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
,
industrial and public
us
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
1
.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
En
e
r
g
y
So
u
r
c
e
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the use of solar energy and
ot
h
e
r
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
,
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
fo
r
al
l
new and significantly
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.1-23
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
.
En
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
all homes have an acceptable
ba
l
a
n
c
e
of
ac
c
e
s
s
to
th
e
su
n
an
d
pr
o
t
e
c
t
i
o
n
fr
o
m
it
.
Promote new technologies,
su
c
h
as
wa
t
e
r
l
e
s
s
wa
t
e
r
he
a
t
e
r
s
to
ef
f
e
c
t
th
i
s
ch
a
n
g
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
2
.
Co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
En
e
r
g
y
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Plan. Prepare and
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
en
e
r
g
y
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
plan for all applicable public
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
an
d
pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
practices.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
3
.
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
wi
t
h
St
a
t
e
an
d
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
Regulation. Review and
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
Ci
t
y
co
d
e
s
,
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
s
,
an
d
pr
o
c
e
d
u
r
e
s
for inclusion of local,
st
a
t
e
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
th
a
t
pr
o
m
o
t
e
the conservation and
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
us
e
of
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
fo
r
co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
wi
t
h
th
e
goal of sustainability. Change
th
o
s
e
th
a
t
wi
l
l
pr
o
m
o
t
e
en
e
r
g
y
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
wi
t
h
o
u
t
a punitive effect.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
4
.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Us
i
n
g
life cycle cost analysis,
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
Ci
t
y
as
s
e
t
s
fo
r
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
wi
t
h
mo
r
e
en
e
r
g
y
efficient replacements.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
5
.
In
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
an
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
program to include
su
c
h
it
e
m
s
as
re
d
u
c
e
d
pe
r
m
i
t
fe
e
s
fo
r
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
that exceed Title 24
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
ot
h
e
r
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
fr
o
m
th
e
St
a
t
e
,
County and Federal
Go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
by
po
s
t
i
n
g
information regarding
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
,
re
b
a
t
e
an
d
ta
x
cr
e
d
i
t
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
web site. Let’s make
le
a
r
n
i
n
g
ab
o
u
t
th
i
s
ea
s
y
an
d
he
l
p
th
o
s
e
in
t
e
r
e
s
t
e
d
get started!
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
6
.
So
l
a
r
Ac
c
e
s
s
St
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
.
En
s
u
r
e
co
m
p
l
i
a
n
c
e
with the State of
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
Su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
Ma
p
Ac
t
so
l
a
r
ac
c
e
s
s
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
in order to maximize
na
t
u
r
a
l
he
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
co
o
l
i
n
g
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
fo
r
fu
t
u
r
e
residences. Encourage the
in
c
l
u
s
i
o
n
of
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
sh
a
d
e
tr
e
e
s
an
d
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
for energy efficiency.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
7
[A
]
.
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
:
De
v
e
l
o
p
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
serving all utility users.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
in
energy conservation
wo
r
k
s
h
o
p
s
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
se
m
i
n
a
r
an
d
st
a
f
f
training on energy
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
fo
r
th
o
s
e
wh
o
de
s
i
g
n
,
bu
i
l
d
and manage building
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
an
d
fo
r
th
o
s
e
wh
o
re
g
u
l
a
t
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
and construction.
In
pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
wi
t
h
De
An
z
a
Co
l
l
e
g
e
,
de
v
e
l
o
p
a “S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Building Practices”
gu
i
d
e
fo
r
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
.
Th
e
Guide should include
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
cu
r
r
e
n
t
re
b
a
t
e
s
an
d
su
b
s
i
d
i
e
s
to make implementing a
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
mo
r
e
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
l
y
at
t
r
a
c
t
i
v
e
with references back to the
Ci
t
y
,
St
a
t
e
,
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
an
d
ot
h
e
r
we
b
si
t
e
s
fo
r
up
‐to
‐date information.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
an
d
a ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
program for
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
5.
1
-
2
4
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
an
d
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
wh
o
ha
v
e
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
d
in “Sustainable Building”
co
u
r
s
e
s
.
Ma
n
y
of
th
e
cu
r
r
i
c
u
l
u
m
s
ar
e
cu
r
r
e
n
t
l
y
available at De Anza College. As
an
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
fo
r
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
n
g
in
th
e
“S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Building” program, the City
wi
l
l
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
a “S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Bu
i
l
d
e
r
/
De
v
e
l
o
p
e
r
”
page on their current City
we
b
s
i
t
e
.
Th
i
s
pa
g
e
wi
l
l
no
t
be
an
en
d
o
r
s
e
m
e
n
t
of
the individual or company
li
s
t
e
d
,
bu
t
a re
s
o
u
r
c
e
ce
n
t
e
r
fo
r
th
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
Es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
an
d
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
an
En
e
r
g
y
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
Ce
n
t
e
r
or Kiosk at City Hall
wh
e
r
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
co
n
c
e
r
n
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
is
s
u
e
s
,
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
standards, recycling and
as
s
i
s
t
a
n
c
e
is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
th
a
t
ar
e
re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
to review and sign as
ac
k
n
o
w
l
e
d
g
m
e
n
t
th
a
t
th
e
y
ha
v
e
re
v
i
e
w
e
d
th
e
“S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Building Practices”
gu
i
d
e
pr
i
o
r
to
pe
r
m
i
t
s
be
i
n
g
is
s
u
e
d
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
7
[B
]
.
En
e
r
g
y
Co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
Sy
s
t
e
m
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the use of energy
co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of
an
awareness program targeting
th
e
la
r
g
e
r
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
us
e
r
s
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
facilities.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
8
.
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
De
s
i
g
n
:
En
s
u
r
e
designer, developers,
ap
p
l
i
c
a
n
t
s
an
d
bu
i
l
d
e
r
s
me
e
t
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
Ti
t
l
e
24
En
e
r
g
y
Efficient Building
St
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
an
d
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
,
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
s
and contractors to
ex
c
e
e
d
“T
i
t
l
e
24
”
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
ne
w
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
the provision of
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ei
t
h
e
r
pa
s
s
i
v
e
so
l
a
r
he
a
t
i
n
g
and/or dark plaster interior
wi
t
h
a co
v
e
r
fo
r
sw
i
m
m
i
n
g
po
o
l
s
,
ca
b
a
n
a
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
related accessory uses
wh
e
r
e
so
l
a
r
ac
c
e
s
s
is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
us
e
of alternative renewable
so
u
r
c
e
s
wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
,
an
d
de
v
e
l
o
p
en
e
r
g
y
au
d
i
t
s
or subvention programs.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐2.
9
.
Us
e
of
Di
s
c
r
e
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
Pe
r
m
i
t
s
(Use Permits): Require,
as
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
of
ap
p
r
o
v
a
l
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
,
the provision of energy
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ap
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
/
S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
El
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐3: Green Building
De
s
i
g
n
Se
t
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
fo
r
th
e
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
of energy and resource
co
n
s
e
r
v
i
n
g
/
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
(G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
De
s
i
g
n
)
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐3.
1
.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Pr
e
p
a
r
e
and implement “Green
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
fo
r
al
l
ma
j
o
r
pr
i
v
a
t
e
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
projects that ensure reduction
in
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
u
m
p
t
i
o
n
fo
r
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
th
r
o
u
g
h
site and building design.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐3.
2
.
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
au
d
i
t
s
.
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
in
and encourage building
en
e
r
g
y
au
d
i
t
s
,
wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
,
fo
r
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
,
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
and city facilities and
co
n
v
e
y
to
th
e
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
that energy
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
is
,
in
th
e
lo
n
g
te
r
m
,
ec
o
n
o
m
i
c
a
l
l
y
beneficial. PG&E also
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.1-25
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
of
f
e
r
s
en
e
r
g
y
ev
a
l
u
a
t
i
o
n
to
o
l
s
an
d
se
r
v
i
c
e
s
fr
e
e
of
charge.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐3.
3
.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
”
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
i
o
n
Gu
i
d
e
.
Prepare a “Green Buildings”
ev
a
l
u
a
t
i
o
n
gu
i
d
e
ba
s
e
d
up
o
n
th
e
ab
o
v
e
li
s
t
e
d
“e
s
s
e
n
t
i
a
l
components” for use by
th
e
ci
t
y
st
a
f
f
wh
e
n
re
v
i
e
w
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐3.
4
.
St
a
f
f
Tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
.
Tr
a
i
n
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
st
a
f
f
in the design principles,
co
s
t
s
an
d
be
n
e
f
i
t
s
of
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
buildings and landscape
de
s
i
g
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐3.
5
.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
”
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Se
m
i
n
a
r
s
.
Conduct and/or
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
in
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
”
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
and workshops to include
pe
o
p
l
e
in
v
o
l
v
e
d
in
th
e
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
in
d
u
s
t
r
y
,
land development, real
es
t
a
t
e
sa
l
e
s
,
le
n
d
i
n
g
in
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
s
,
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
an
d
de
s
i
g
n
,
the building
ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
in
d
u
s
t
r
y
an
d
pr
o
s
p
e
c
t
i
v
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
ap
p
l
i
c
a
n
t
s
.
We recommend
mo
d
e
l
i
n
g
th
i
s
pr
o
g
r
a
m
af
t
e
r
th
e
CE
R
T
pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐3.
6
.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Co
m
m
u
n
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
:
Be
c
o
m
e
a re
g
u
l
a
r
feature article in the
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Sc
e
n
e
,
do
me
d
i
a
ou
t
r
e
a
c
h
to
th
e
Co
u
r
i
e
r
and the Guide (San Jose
Me
r
c
u
r
y
)
ta
p
e
th
e
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
an
d
ot
h
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
courses, or
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
an
d
br
o
a
d
c
a
s
t
th
e
m
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
Ch
a
n
n
e
l
as well, and make them
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
at
th
e
Li
b
r
a
r
y
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐7:
Us
e
of
Op
e
n
Fi
r
e
s
an
d
Fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
.
Di
s
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
high pollution fireplace
us
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐7.
1
.
BA
A
Q
M
D
Li
t
e
r
a
t
u
r
e
.
Ma
k
e
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
BAAQMD literature on
re
d
u
c
i
n
g
po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
fr
o
m
fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
us
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐7.
2
.
In
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
Ne
w
Fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
.
Pr
o
h
i
b
i
t
the use of wood‐burning
fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
in
ne
w
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
,
ex
c
e
p
t
fo
r
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Protection Agency
Ce
r
t
i
f
i
e
d
Wo
o
d
s
t
o
v
e
s
.
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
/
S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
El
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐28: Interagency
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
.
Ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
pu
r
s
u
e
in
t
e
r
a
g
e
n
c
y
co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
for regional water supply
pr
o
b
l
e
m
so
l
v
i
n
g
.
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
/
S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
El
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐29: Coordination of
Lo
c
a
l
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Po
l
i
c
i
e
s
wi
t
h
Re
g
i
o
n
w
i
d
e
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Policies Coordinate
ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
ef
f
o
r
t
s
wi
t
h
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Clara Valley Water District
ef
f
o
r
t
s
be
i
n
g
co
n
d
u
c
t
e
d
on
a re
g
i
o
n
a
l
sc
a
l
e
.
Ma
n
y
of these conservation efforts
ar
e
ou
t
l
i
n
e
d
in
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
Wa
t
e
r
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
Drought Plan and
Co
u
n
t
y
w
i
d
e
Wa
t
e
r
Us
e
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
/
S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
El
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐30: Public Information
Ef
f
o
r
t
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
wa
t
e
r
conservation/efficiency
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
5.
1
-
2
6
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
te
c
h
n
i
q
u
e
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
ho
w
pa
v
i
n
g
an
d
ot
h
e
r
im
p
e
r
v
i
o
u
s
surfaces impact runoff.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐30
.
1.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
se
n
d
i
n
g
re
g
u
l
a
r
no
t
i
c
e
s
to
households and businesses
on
wa
t
e
r
pr
o
h
i
b
i
t
i
o
n
s
,
wa
t
e
r
al
l
o
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
an
d
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
tips. Become a
re
g
u
l
a
r
l
y
fe
a
t
u
r
e
d
ar
t
i
c
l
e
in
th
e
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Sc
e
n
e
,
Co
u
r
i
e
r
and Guide. Provide
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
vi
d
e
o
t
a
p
e
s
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
channel. Include water‐wise
de
m
o
n
s
t
r
a
t
i
o
n
ga
r
d
e
n
s
in
so
m
e
pa
r
k
s
wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
as they are re‐landscaped
or
im
p
r
o
v
e
d
us
i
n
g
dr
a
u
g
h
t
to
l
e
r
a
n
t
na
t
i
v
e
an
d
no
n
i
n
v
a
s
i
v
e
,
non‐native plants.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
Co
u
n
t
y
Ma
s
t
e
r
Ga
r
d
e
n
e
r
s
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
water‐wise plant materials
an
d
ir
r
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
me
t
h
o
d
s
fo
r
us
e
in
pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
areas. This information
sh
o
u
l
d
be
po
s
t
e
d
on
th
e
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
po
r
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
City’s web site and included in
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Sc
e
n
e
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
co
l
u
m
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐31
:
Wa
t
e
r
Us
e
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
use of water throughout the
Ci
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐31
.
1
.
La
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
Pl
a
n
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
wa
t
e
r
‐efficient landscaping plans
th
a
t
in
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
th
e
us
a
g
e
of
re
c
y
c
l
e
d
wa
t
e
r
fo
r
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
e
irrigation as part of
th
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
re
v
i
e
w
pr
o
c
e
s
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐31
.
2
.
Wa
t
e
r
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Wo
r
k
with the Santa Clara Valley
Wa
t
e
r
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
to
un
d
e
r
t
a
k
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
th
a
t
pr
o
m
o
t
e
water use efficiency for
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
an
d
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
cu
s
t
o
m
e
r
s
.
Ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
for long‐term water
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
at
Ci
t
y
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
in
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
of low flow toilets and
sh
o
w
e
r
s
,
in
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
au
t
o
m
a
t
i
c
sh
u
t
of
f
va
l
v
e
s
in
lavatories and sinks and
wa
t
e
r
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
ou
t
d
o
o
r
ir
r
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐38
:
Co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
/
I
n
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
.
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Ex
p
a
n
d
existing commercial and
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
me
e
t
an
d
su
r
p
a
s
s
AB939 waste stream reduction
go
a
l
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐38
.
1
.
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
.
Re
q
u
e
s
t
th
a
t
al
l
commercial and industrial
us
e
s
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
i
r
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
ef
f
o
r
t
s
to
he
l
p
th
e
ci
t
y
achieve its recycling goals.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐39
:
Re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
St
r
e
a
m
l
i
n
e
th
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
curbside recycling
pr
o
g
r
a
m
in
th
e
ne
x
t
de
c
a
d
e
.
In
c
l
u
d
e
al
l
ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
Zoning designations
in
th
e
cu
r
b
s
i
d
e
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐39
.
1
.
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
wi
t
h
Lo
s
Al
t
o
s
Ga
r
b
a
g
e
Company. Work closely
wi
t
h
th
e
Lo
s
Al
t
o
s
Ga
r
b
a
g
e
Co
m
p
a
n
y
to
de
v
e
l
o
p
an
d
implement efficient and
ef
f
e
c
t
i
v
e
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
me
t
h
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐39
.
2
.
E‐Wa
s
t
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
/make permanent the e‐
wa
s
t
e
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐39
.
3
.
Cu
r
b
s
i
d
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
of
ya
r
d
wa
s
t
e
.
In
c
l
u
d
e
vegetable; fruit and
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.1-27
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
ot
h
e
r
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
fo
o
d
it
e
m
s
,
as
we
l
l
as
,
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
of non‐reusable batteries as
th
e
Ci
t
y
of
Pa
l
o
Al
t
o
do
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐40
:
On
‐si
t
e
Ga
r
b
a
g
e
Ar
e
a
De
d
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
Mo
d
i
f
y
existing, and require for
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
,
on
‐si
t
e
wa
s
t
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
y
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
for all multi‐family
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
,
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
la
n
d
us
e
s
to
have 50% of their garbage
ar
e
a
de
d
i
c
a
t
e
d
to
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
no
mo
r
e
th
a
n
50
%
garbage.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐40
.
1
.
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
Re
v
i
s
i
o
n
s
.
Re
v
i
s
e
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
ordinances relative to on‐
si
t
e
wa
s
t
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
y
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
al
l
mu
l
t
i
‐fa
m
i
l
y
residential, commercial and
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
Zo
n
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
a
t
i
o
n
s
to
re
q
u
i
r
e
th
a
t
a mi
n
i
m
u
m
of 50% of garbage area
be
de
d
i
c
a
t
e
d
to
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐41
:
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
th
e
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
public education program
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
th
e
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
so
l
i
d
wa
s
t
e
di
s
p
o
s
a
l
an
d
recycling.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐41
.
1
.
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Us
e
the local television channel,
th
e
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Sc
e
n
e
,
th
e
In
t
e
r
n
e
t
an
d
ot
h
e
r
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
media to provide
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
to
th
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
ab
o
u
t
th
e
ob
j
e
c
t
i
v
e
s
of
the City’s recycling program.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐42
:
Ci
t
y
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
Ci
t
y
st
a
f
f
to
re
c
y
c
l
e
at all City facilities.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐42
.
1.
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
co
l
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
bins and increase the
nu
m
b
e
r
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
bi
n
s
at
st
r
a
t
e
g
i
c
a
l
l
y
lo
c
a
t
e
d
areas to facilitate
di
s
p
o
s
a
l
of
re
c
y
c
l
a
b
l
e
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
al
l
Ci
t
y
pa
r
k
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐42
.
2.
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
an
d
In
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
s
.
Pa
r
t
n
e
r
with schools/institutions in
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
to
en
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
th
e
y
un
d
e
r
s
t
a
n
d
an
d
ar
e
adhering to the City’s recycling
go
a
l
s
an
d
pr
o
v
i
d
i
n
g
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
to staff and students.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐43
:
Re
‐di
s
t
r
i
b
u
t
i
o
n
of
Re
u
s
a
b
l
e
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
Through public education,
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
to
re
‐di
s
t
r
i
b
u
t
e
reusable materials, e.g.
ga
r
a
g
e
sa
l
e
s
,
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
ex
c
h
a
n
g
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐42
.
1.
Di
s
s
e
m
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Disseminate
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
to
bo
t
h
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
the benefits of recycling
an
d
fu
r
t
h
e
r
re
d
u
c
i
n
g
th
e
so
l
i
d
wa
s
t
e
st
r
e
a
m
.
Us
e
of
the Internet. Set up a web
si
t
e
fo
r
th
e
be
n
e
f
i
t
of
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
wh
e
r
e
th
e
av
a
i
l
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
of recyclable materials can
be
po
s
t
e
d
an
d
ex
c
h
a
n
g
e
s
ca
n
be
co
n
d
u
c
t
e
d
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐44
:
Re
u
s
e
of
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the recycling and reuse of
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
d
by the demolition and
re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
of
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐44
.
1.
Po
s
t
De
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
Re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
Projects. Encourage
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
to
po
s
t
de
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
on the Internet
an
n
o
u
n
c
i
n
g
th
e
av
a
i
l
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
of
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
re
u
s
a
b
l
e
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
NO
P
R
O
J
E
C
T
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
5.
1
-
2
8
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
1
‐3
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5‐44
.
2.
Pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
Pr
i
v
a
t
e
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
contractors working on City
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
to
us
e
re
c
y
c
l
e
d
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
y
harvested wood
pr
o
d
u
c
t
s
to
th
e
ma
x
i
m
u
m
ex
t
e
n
t
po
s
s
i
b
l
e
an
d
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
them to do the same
on
pr
i
v
a
t
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Fu
r
t
h
e
r
St
u
d
y
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
FS
M
1 – Ad
h
e
s
i
v
e
s
an
d
Se
a
l
a
n
t
s
FS
M
2 – Re
a
c
t
i
v
i
t
y
in
Co
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
So
l
v
e
n
t
s
FS
M
3 – So
l
v
e
n
t
Cl
e
a
n
i
n
g
an
d
De
g
r
e
a
s
i
n
g
Op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
s
FS
M
4 – Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
Co
o
l
i
n
g
To
w
e
r
s
FS
M
5 – Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
Le
a
k
s
FS
M
6 – Wa
s
t
e
w
a
t
e
r
fr
o
m
Co
k
e
Cu
t
t
i
n
g
FS
M
7 – SO
2 fr
o
m
Re
f
i
n
e
r
y
Pr
o
c
e
s
s
e
s
FS
M
8 – Re
d
u
c
e
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
fr
o
m
LP
G
,
Pr
o
p
a
n
e
,
Bu
t
a
n
e
,
an
d
ot
h
e
r
Pr
e
s
s
u
r
i
z
e
d
Ga
s
e
s
FS
M
9 – Gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
Ga
s
Mi
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
in
BA
C
T
an
d
TB
A
C
T
De
t
e
r
m
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
s
FS
M
10
Fu
r
t
h
e
r
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
Co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
Co
o
k
i
n
g
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
FS
M
11
– Ma
g
n
e
t
So
u
r
c
e
Ru
l
e
FS
M
12
– Wo
o
d
Sm
o
k
e
FS
M
13
– En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
Re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
En
e
r
g
y
FS
M
14
– Wi
n
e
r
y
Fe
r
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
FS
M
15
– Co
m
p
o
s
t
i
n
g
Op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
s
FS
M
16
– Va
n
i
s
h
i
n
g
Oi
l
s
an
d
Ru
s
t
In
h
i
b
i
t
o
r
s
FS
M
17
– Fe
r
r
y
Sy
s
t
e
m
Ex
p
a
n
s
i
o
n
FS
M
18
– Gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
Ga
s
Fe
e
Th
e
ma
j
o
r
i
t
y
of
th
e
Fu
r
t
h
e
r
St
u
d
y
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ap
p
l
y
to sources regulated
di
r
e
c
t
l
y
by
BA
A
Q
M
D
.
Be
c
a
u
s
e
BA
A
Q
M
D
is
th
e
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
i
n
g
agency, new and
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
so
u
r
c
e
s
of
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
s
in
th
e
City would be required to
co
m
p
l
y
wi
t
h
th
e
s
e
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
fu
r
t
h
e
r
st
u
d
y
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
in the 2010 Bay Area
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
.
So
u
r
c
e
:
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Ai
r
Qu
a
l
i
t
y
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
,
20
1
1
Re
v
i
s
e
d
,
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Qu
a
l
i
t
y
Ac
t
Ai
r
Qu
a
l
i
t
y
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-29
Regional Growth Projections for VMT and Population and Employment
Future development under the No Project Alternative would result in additional sources of criteria air
pollutants. Growth accommodated within the City would occur over a 20-year or longer time horizon. As a
result, BAAQMD’s approach to evaluating impacts from criteria air pollutants generated by long-term
growth associated with a plan is done in comparison to BAAQMD’s AQMP rather than a comparison of
emissions to project-level significance thresholds. This is because BAAQMD’s AQMP plans for growth in the
SFBAAB are based on regional population and employment projections identified by ABAG and growth in
VMT identified by VTA. Changes in regional, community-wide emissions in Cupertino could affect the
ability of BAAQMD to achieve the air quality goals identified in the AQMP. Consequently, air quality
impacts for a plan-level analysis are based on consistency with the regional growth projections.
As previously discussed under subheading “Attain Air Quality Standards” above, the additional residential
population resulting from implementation of the No Project Alternative would be within the regional
population projections (7,827 fewer residents) and would not exceed the regional employment projections
(2,412 less employees). Future growth under the No Project Alternative would come incrementally over
approximately 26 years and would be guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of
the principal goals and objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area. The General
Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure coordination with regional agencies
on regional planning initiatives. Policy 5-4, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, would require the
City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Supporting Strategy 3 would require the City to assess the potential for air pollution effects of
future land use and transportation planning, to ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of
improving air quality. The Circulation Element also includes policies regarding coordination with regional
transportation planning agencies. Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, would
require the City to actively participate in developing regional approaches to meeting the transportation
needs of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley. Growth identified under the No Project Alternative would
be consistent with the regional planning objectives established for the Bay Area, which concentrates new
development within infill sites.
Citywide VMT estimates derived from assumed 2040 land use under the No Project Alternative were
calculated by Hexagon Transportation Consultants, using the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Agency
(VTA) model. Land uses in the City generate 897,419 VMT per day (10.47 miles per service population per
day in 2013). Based on the future estimates of VMT per person for Cupertino as projected by the VTA
model for year 2040, 997,145 VMT per day (10.53 miles per service population per day in 2040) would be
generated in the City. Table 5.1-4 compares the projected increase in service population with the projected
increase in VMT. As shown in this table, daily VMT in the Project Study Area would increase at a greater rate
(11.1 percent) between 2013 and 2040 than would the service population of the Project Study Area (10.5
percent). However, BAAQMD’s AQMP requires that the VMT increase be less than or equal to the projected
population increase of the project. The No Project Alternative would result in a higher VMT rate of growth
than rate of service population growth. Consequently, impacts for the City of Cupertino would be
significant.
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TABLE 5.1‐4 COMPARISON OF THE CHANGE IN SERVICE POPULATION AND VMT FOR THE NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
Category 2013
2040
Land Use Alt. A Change Percent Change
Population 58,302 63,873 5,571 9.6%
Employment 27,387 30,848 3,461 12.6%
Total Service Population 85,689 94,721 9,032 10.5%
VMT/Day 897,419 997,145 99,726 11.1%
Notes: VMT is provided by Hexagon based on the VTA model.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 California Code of Regulations: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, California Code of Regulations: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, California Code of Regulations: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
While the No Project Alternative would support the primary goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan, the
buildout of the No Project Alternative would conflict with the BAAQMD Bay Area Clean Air Plan goal for
community-wide VMT to increase at a slower rate compared to population and employment growth. The
rate of growth in VMT would exceed the rate of population and employment growth, resulting in a
substantial increase in regional criteria air pollutant emissions in Cupertino. Consequently, impacts are
significant.
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Mitigation Measures
There are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact.
The Plan Bay Area aims to improve transportation efficiency and reduce regional infrastructure costs in the
region. Policies and development standards in the No Project Alternative would facilitate continued City
participation/cooperation with BAAQMD and VTA to achieve regional air quality improvement goals,
promote energy conservation design and development techniques, encourage alternative transportation
modes, and implement transportation demand management strategies. However, due to the level of growth
forecast in the city and the programmatic nature of the No Project Alternative, no additional mitigating
policies or development standards are available and project-level and cumulative impacts are considered
significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
AQ-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would violate any air quality
standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation.
BAAQMD has identified thresholds of significance for criteria pollutant emissions and criteria air pollutant
precursors, including Reactive Organic Gases (ROG), Nitric Oxide (NO), PM10 and PM2.5. Development
projects below the significance thresholds are not expected to generate sufficient criteria pollutant emissions
to violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation.
According to BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines, long-range plans (e.g. general plan, redevelopment plans,
specific plans, area plans, community plans, regional plans, congestion management plans, etc.) present
unique challenges for assessing impacts. Due to the SFBAAB’s nonattainment status for ozone and PM and
the cumulative impacts of growth on air quality, these plans almost always have significant, unavoidable
adverse air quality impacts.
Operational Emissions
Although BAAQMD’s CEQA Air Quality Guidelines only require an emissions inventory of criteria air
pollutants for project-level analyses, an inventory of criteria air pollutants was generated for the No Project
Alternative, since enough information regarding the buildout of the General Plan is available and can be
used to identify the magnitude of emissions from buildout of the No Project Alternative. Table 5.1-5
identifies the emissions associated with buildout of the No Project Alternative. Subsequent environmental
review of development projects would be required to assess potential impacts under BAAQMD’s project-
level thresholds.
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TABLE 5.1‐5 COMMUNITY‐WIDE CRITERIA AIR POLLUTANTS GENERATED BY THE NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
Category
Criteria Air Pollutants (average lbs/day)
ROG NOx
Exhaust
PM10
Exhaust
PM2.5
Transportationa
60 341 117 51
Energyb
52 457 36 36
Area Sourcesc
1,459 747 54 53
Total 1,571 1,545 206 140
Change from 2013 Land Uses 149 1,288 173 117
BAAQMD Average Daily Project‐Level Threshold 54 54 82 54
Exceeds Average Daily Threshold Yes Yes Yes Yes
Total Tons per Year (tpy) 285 tpy 273 tpy 36 tpy 25 tpy
Change from 2013 Land Uses 27 tpy 16 tpy 3 tpy 2 tpy
BAAQMD Annual Project‐Level Threshold 10 tpy 10 tpy 15 tpy 10 tpy
Exceeds Annual Threshold Yes Yes No No
Note: Emissions may note total to 100 percent due to rounding.
a. Transportation. VMT is based on data provided by Hexagon, based on VTA model for Cupertino and modeled with EMFAC2011‐PL for running
exhaust emissions using 2035 emission rates (note: 2040 emissions rates are not available). VMT is multiplied by 347 days/year to account for reduced
traffic on weekends and holidays.
b. Energy. Based on three‐year average (2012–2010) of energy use provided by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and forecast based on the No Project
Alternative housing units (residential), employment (non‐residential), and service population (City) projections. The nonresidential sector includes
direct access customers, county facilities, and other district facilities within the City boundaries.
c. Area Sources – Off‐road Emissions. Generated using OFFROAD2007. Estimated based on population (Landscaping), employment (Light Commercial
Equipment), and construction building permits (Construction) for Cupertino as a percentage of Santa Clara County. Annual construction emissions
forecasts are assumed to be similar to historic levels. Forecasts for landscaping equipment use are based on the No Project Alternative population
projections, and for light commercial equipment use are based on the No Project Alternative employment projections. Excludes BAAQMD‐permitted
sources. ROG emissions from consumer product use based on the emissions rates in CalEEMod 2013.2.2. Daily construction emissions multiplied by 347
days/year to account for reduced/limited construction activity on weekends and holidays. Excludes fugitive emissions from construction sites.
Policies and strategies in the current General Plan, once adopted, would reduce criteria air pollutants from
development projects. Within the current Land Use/ Community Design Element Policy 2-2, Connections
between Major Mixed-Use Special Areas, Employment Centers and the Community, requires the City to
provide strong connections between the major mixed-use Special Areas, employment centers, and the
surrounding community. Strategy 1, Neighborhood Connections, requires the City to enhance pedestrian
and bicycle connections from the major mixed-use corridors and employment centers to surrounding
neighborhoods. Strategy 2 for this policy, Public Access, requires the City to provide pedestrian and bicycle
paths through new and redevelopment projects to enhance public access to and through the development.
Policy 2-9, Long Term Growth Boundary, requires the City to allow modification of the long-term growth
boundary only in conjunction with a comprehensive review of the City’s General Plan. Policy 2-19,
Jobs/Housing Balance, requires the City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units.
Strategy 1, Housing and Mixed-Use, requires the City to strive to achieve a balanced jobs/housing ratio
based on the policies and strategies contained in the Housing Element. Under this policy, strategy 2,
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Housing Impact on Local Schools, states that since the quality of Cupertino schools (elementary and high
school) is a primary asset of the City, care shall be taken to ensure any new housing will not adversely
impact these systems. Policy 2-26, Heart of the City Special Area, requires the City to create a positive and
memorable image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of mixed-use development; enhanced activity gateways
and nodes; and safe and efficient circulation and access for all modes of transportation. Strategy 1 under this
policy, Heart of the City Specific Plan, requires the City to maintain the Heart of the City Specific Plan as
the primary implementation tool for the City to use for this area. Strategy 2, Traffic Calming, requires the
City to evaluate options on Stevens Creek Boulevard to improve the pedestrian environment by proactively
managing speed limits and traffic signal synchronization. Policy 2-57, Pedestrian Access, requires the City to
create pedestrian access between new subdivisions and school sites. Review existing neighborhood
circulation plans to improve safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists to school sites, including
completing accessible network of sidewalks and paths. Strategy 1 under this policy, Cupertino Pedestrian
Transportation Guidelines, requires the City to implement the recommendations of the Cupertino
Pedestrian Transportation Plan to develop a City trail/pedestrian linkage between major mixed-use
corridors, employment centers, neighborhoods, and major open space areas. Strategy 2, Trail Projects,
requires the City to implement the trail projects described in this element. Evaluate any safety, security and
privacy impacts and mitigations associated with trail development. Work with affected neighborhoods in
locating trails. Strategy 3, Dedicated Trails or Easements, calls for the City to require dedication or
easements for trails, as well as their implementation, as part of the development process, where
appropriate.
Within the current Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability,
requires the City to incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s planning and development
system. Strategy 1 under this policy requires the City to appoint a Task Force or Commission to develop an
appropriate comprehensive annual Sustainability and Resource Plan for the City. The mission for the Task
Force/Commission would be threefold. First, it must write and keep current the annual Tactical Plan and
measurement of citywide programs to help achieve the Environmental Resources and Sustainability section
of the General Plan. Second, it must identify and evaluate resources, technologies, products and the
lifecycle cost of ownership for each recommended. Lastly it must work with City staff to evaluate the
financial feasibility of the recommendations. Strategy 2, Implementation Programs, requires the City to
adopt and implement energy policies and implementation programs that include the City’s planning and
regulatory process. Strategy 3, Citywide Inventory, requires the City to conduct a citywide sustainability
inventory in order to identify issues, opportunities and planning alternatives. Strategy 4, Sustainable Energy
and Water Conservation Plan, requires the City to prepare and implement a comprehensive sustainability
energy plan as a part of the City’s General Plan. This plan will specifically include recommendations
regarding; reduction of energy consumption, reduction of fossil fuels, use of renewable energy resources
whenever possible, improve citywide water usage and conservancy, reduce water consumption by the City,
and promote residential and business water reduction. Strategy 5, Community Gardens, requires the City to
encourage community gardens, which provide a more livable environment by controlling physical factors
such as temperature, noise, and pollution. Policy 5-2, Conservation and Efficient Use of Energy Resources,
requires the City to encourage the maximum feasible conservation and efficient use of electrical power and
natural gas resources for new and existing residences, businesses, industrial and public uses. Strategy 2
under this policy, Comprehensive Energy Management Plan, requires the City to prepare and implement a
comprehensive energy management plan for all applicable public facilities, equipment and procurement and
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construction practices. Strategy 3, Consistency with State and Federal Regulation, requires the City to
review and evaluate applicable City codes, ordinances, and procedures for inclusion of local, state and
federal policies and standards that promote the conservation and efficient use of energy and for consistency
with the goal of sustainability. Change those that will promote energy efficiency without a punitive effect.
Strategy 4, Energy Efficient Replacements, requires the City to identify City assets for replacement with
more energy efficient replacements using life cycle cost analysis. Strategy 5, Incentive Program, requires the
City to implement an incentive program to include such items as reduced permit fees for building projects
that exceed Title 24 requirements. Promote other incentives from the State, County and Federal
Governments for improving energy efficiency by posting information regarding incentive, rebate and tax
credit programs on the City’s web site. Strategy 7[B], Energy Cogeneration Systems, requires the City to
encourage the use of energy cogeneration systems through the provision of an awareness program targeting
the larger commercial and industrial users and public facilities. Strategy 8, Regulation of Building Design,
requires the City to ensure designer, developers, applicants and builders meet California Title 24 Energy
Efficient Building Standards and encourage architects, building designers and contractors to exceed “Title
24” requirements for new projects through the provision of incentives. Encourage either passive solar
heating and/or dark plaster interior with a cover for swimming pools, cabanas and other related accessory
uses where solar access is available. Encourage the use of alternative renewable sources where feasible, and
develop energy audits or subvention programs. Strategy 9 under this policy, Use of Discretionary
Development Permits (Use Permits), calls for the City to require, as conditions of approval for new and
renovated projects, the provision of energy conservation/efficiency applications. Strategy 10, Energy
Efficient Transportation Modes, requires the City to encourage alternative, energy efficient transportation
modes such as “clean” multi-modal public transit, car and vanpooling, flexible work hours, and pedestrian
and bicycle paths.
Policy 5-3, Green Building Design, requires the City to set standards for the design and construction of
energy and resource conserving/ efficient building (Green Building Design). Strategy 1 under this policy,
“Green Building” Program, requires the City to prepare and implement “Green Building” standards for all
major private and public projects that ensure reduction in energy consumption for new development
through site and building design. Strategy 2, Building energy audits, requires the City to participate in and
encourage building energy audits, where feasible, for commercial, industrial and city facilities and convey to
the business and industrial communities that energy conservation/efficiency is, in the long term,
economically beneficial. PG&E also offers energy evaluation tools and services free of charge. Strategy 3,
“Green Buildings” Evaluation Guide, requires the City to prepare a “Green Buildings” evaluation guide based
upon the above listed “essential components” for use by the city staff when reviewing projects. Strategy 4,
Staff Training, requires the City to train appropriate staff in the design principles, costs and benefits of
energy conservation/efficient buildings and landscape design. Strategy 5, “Green Buildings” Informational
Seminars, requires the City to conduct and/or participate in “Green Buildings” informational seminars and
workshops to include people involved in the design and construction industry, land development, real estate
sales, lending institutions, landscaping and design, the building maintenance industry and prospective
project applicants. We recommend modeling this program after the CERT program. Strategy 6, Public
Communication, requires the City to become a regular feature article in the Cupertino Scene, do media
outreach to the Courier and the Guide (San Jose Mercury) tape the Sustainable Building and other
conservation courses, or seminars and broadcast them on the City Channel as well, and make them available
at the Library.
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Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of Existing Development, requires the City to minimize the air quality
impacts of existing development. Strategy 1 under this policy, Public Education Program, requires the City
to establish a citywide public education program regarding the implications of the Clean Air Act and provide
information on ways to reduce and control emissions; provide information about carpooling and restricting
physical activities on “Spare the Air” high-pollution days. Strategy 2, Home Occupations, requires the City to
expand the allowable home occupations in residentially zoned properties to reduce the need to commute to
work. Strategy 3, Tree Planting, requires the City to increase planting of trees on City property and
encourage the practice on private property. Strategy 4, Fuel-efficient Vehicles, requires the City to maintain
City use of fuel-efficient and low polluting vehicles. Strategy 5 requires the City to work with Santa Clara
County to monitor and influence improvement of emissions and dust from the Hanson and Stevens Creek
Quarries on the West end of the City. Policy 5-6, Walking, Jogging and Bicycling, requires the City to
encourage walking, jogging and bicycling instead of driving in the City. Policy 5-7, Use of Open Fires and
Fireplaces, requires the City to discourage high pollution fireplace use. Strategy 1 under this policy,
BAAQMD Literature, requires the City to make available BAAQMD literature on reducing pollution from
fireplace use. Strategy 2, Installation of New Fireplaces, requires the City to prohibit the use of wood-
burning fireplaces in new construction, except for Environmental Protection Agency Certified Woodstoves.
Within the current Circulation Element policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning,
requires the City to participate actively in developing regional approaches to meeting the transportation
needs of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley. Work closely with neighboring jurisdictions and agencies
responsible for roadways, transit facilities and transit services in Cupertino. Strategy 2 under this policy,
Jobs–Housing Balance, requires the City to minimize regional traffic impacts on Cupertino by supporting
regional planning programs to manage the jobs-housing balance throughout Santa Clara County and the
Silicon Valley. Strategy 6 under this policy, Multi-modal Transportation, requires the City to ensure that
connections are provided to enable travelers to transition from one mode of transportation to another, e.g.
bicycle to bus. Strategy 7 under this policy, Regional Bus and Rapid Transit Service, requires the City to
support the expansion of the VTA’s regional bus transit system and extension of bus and/or light rail rapid
transit into the Stevens Creek and De Anza Corridors to fulfill the “spoke and wheel” transit system
designed to serve all of Santa Clara County. Specific actions to implement this strategy are: review all right-
of-way improvement projects for potential opportunities and constraints to rapid transit development; seek
the cooperative support of residents, property owners and businesses in planning rapid transit extensions;
actively seek to have Cupertino represent West Valley cities and ultimately chair the VTA Board of Directors
to promote the above policy.
Policy 4-2, Reduced Reliance on the Use of Single-Occupant Vehicles, requires the City to promote a
general decrease in reliance on private, mostly single-occupant vehicles (SOV) by encouraging attractive
alternatives. Strategy 1 under this policy, Alternatives to the SOV, requires the City to encourage the use of
alternatives to the SOV including increased car-pooling, use of public transit, bicycling and walking. Strategy
2, TSM Programs, requires the City to encourage TSM programs for employees in both the public and
private sectors by including preferred parking for carpools, providing bus passes, encouraging compressed
workweeks, and providing incentives and rewards for bicycling and walking. Strategy 3, Telecommuting,
Teleconferencing and Other Electronic Communication, requires the City to encourage employers to use
the internet to reduce commute travel. Encourage schools, particularly at the college and high school levels,
to make maximum use of the internet to limit the need to travel to and from the campus. Strategy 4, Design
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of New Developments, requires the City to encourage new commercial developments to provide shared
office facilities, cafeterias, day-care facilities, lunchrooms, showers, bicycle parking, home offices, shuttle
buses to transit facilities and other amenities that encourage the use of transit, bicycling, walking or
telecommuting as commute modes to work. Provide pedestrian pathways and orient buildings to the street
to encourage pedestrian activity. Strategy 4, Street Space for Alternative Transportation, requires the City to
provide space on appropriate streets for bus turnouts, or safe and accessible bike lanes or pedestrian paths.
Strategy 6, Alternative Transportation Information, requires the City to use the Cupertino Scene and other
media to provide educational material on alternatives to the SOV. Strategy 7, Citizen Participation, requires
the City to continue to work with the City Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, community groups and
residents to eliminate hazards and barriers to bicycle and pedestrian transportation.
Despite implementation of the existing and amended Project policies and strategies, as identified previously,
criteria air pollutant emissions associated with buildout of the No Project Alternative would generate a
substantial increase in emissions that exceeds the BAAQMD regional significance thresholds (ROG, NOx,
and PM10). Criteria air pollutant emissions would be generated from on-site area sources (e.g. landscaping
fuel, consumer products), vehicle trips generated by the project, and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for
cooking and heating). This is considered a significant impact.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 California Code of Regulations: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, California Code of Regulations: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, California Code of Regulations: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Future development under the No Project Alternative would result in a substantial long-term increase in
criteria air pollutants over the 26-year General Plan horizon. Criteria air pollutant emissions would be
generated from on-site area sources (e.g. landscaping fuel, consumer products), vehicle trips generated by
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the project, and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for cooking and heating). The General Plan policies and
strategies listed previously under Impact AQ-1 would minimize emissions to the extent feasible; however,
there are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact due to the level of growth forecast in the
city. Impacts are significant.
Mitigation Measures
There are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact. Compliance with the goals and policies of
the No Project Alternative would reduce operational emissions from development under the No Project
Alternative. In addition, Mitigation Measure AQ-4a (for new sources of toxic air contaminants, see below),
would also reduce criteria air pollutants associated with light industrial land uses within the city. Future
development in Cupertino could generate operational emissions in excess of the BAAQMD significance
thresholds. Operational emissions from future development would be determined during project-level
CEQA review. The total criteria air pollutant emissions from operation of future development projects
under the No Project Alternative would be substantial and would contribute to increases in concentrations
of air pollutants, which could contribute to ongoing violations of air quality standards. It should be noted
that the identification of this program-level impact does not preclude the finding of less-than-significant
impacts for subsequent projects that comply with BAAQMD screening criteria or meet applicable
thresholds of significance. However, due to the programmatic nature of the No Project Alternative, no
additional mitigating policies are available, and the impact is considered significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
Construction Emissions
BAAQMD’s plan-level guidelines do not require an evaluation of construction emissions for plan-level
projects. There is no proposed development under the No Project Alternative at this time. Future
development proposals under the No Project Alternative would be subject to separate environmental review
pursuant to CEQA in order to identify and mitigate potential air quality impacts. Because the details
regarding future construction activities are not known at this time, including phasing of future individual
projects, construction duration and phasing, and preliminary construction equipment, construction
emissions are evaluated qualitatively in accordance with BAAQMD’s plan-level guidance.
Construction emissions associated with individual development projects under the No Project Alternative
would generate an increase in criteria air pollutants and TACs. BAAQMD has developed project-level
thresholds for construction activities. Subsequent environmental review of future development projects
would be required to assess potential impacts under BAAQMD’s project-level thresholds. Construction
emissions from buildout of future projects within Cupertino would primarily be 1) exhaust emissions from
off-road diesel-powered construction equipment; 2) dust generated by demolition, grading, earthmoving,
and other construction activities; 3) exhaust emissions from on-road vehicles and 4) off-gas emissions of
ROGs from application of asphalt, paints, and coatings.
Implementation of some of the current General Plan policies and strategies would minimize impacts during
construction. Within the current Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element policy 5-4, Air Pollution
Effects of New Development, requires the City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development
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projects and the impacts affecting new development. Strategy 2 under this policy, Dust Control, calls for the
City to require water application to non-polluting dust control measures during demolition and the
duration of the construction period.
Within the current Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-52, Rural Improvement Standards in
Hillside Areas, calls for the City to require rural improvement standards in hillside areas to preserve the
rural character of the hillsides. Strategy 1 under this policy, Mass Grading in New Construction, requires
the City to follow natural land contour and avoid mass grading in new construction, especially in flood
hazard or hillside areas. Grading large, flat areas shall be avoided.
Existing federal, State, and local regulations, and policies and strategies of the No Project Alternative
described throughout Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of the Draft EIR protect local and regional air quality.
Continued compliance with these regulations and implementation of General Plan policies and strategies,
would reduce construction-related impacts to the extent feasible. However, if uncontrolled, fugitive dust
(PM10 and PM2.5) levels downwind of actively disturbed areas during construction or overlapping
construction activities could violate air quality standards or contribute substantially to an existing or
projected air quality violation and expose sensitive receptors to elevated concentrations of pollutants during
construction activities. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 California Code of Regulations: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, California Code of Regulations: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, California Code of Regulations: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
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Future projects under the No Project Alternative would generate air pollutant emissions during
construction phases that could exceed BAAQMD’s significance criteria and subsequently result in
significant air quality impacts.
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Measure AQ-2a: As part of the City’s development approval process, the City shall
require applicants for future development projects to comply with the current Bay Area Air Quality
Management District’s basic control measures for reducing construction emissions of PM10.
Mitigation Measure AQ-2b: As part of the City’s development approval process the City shall
require applicants for future development projects that could generate emissions in excess of the Bay
Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMDs) current significance thresholds during
construction, as determined by project-level environmental review, when applicable, to implement the
current BAAQMD construction mitigation measures (e.g. Table 8-3 of the BAAQMD CEQA
Guidelines) or any construction mitigation measures subsequently adopted by the BAAQMD.
Mitigation Measure AQ-2a would require adherence to BAAQMD’s basic control measures for fugitive dust
control and would ensure impacts from fugitive dust generated during construction activities are less than
significant. However, applicants for future development in Cupertino could generate construction exhaust
emissions in excess of the BAAQMD significance thresholds. An analysis of emissions generated from the
construction of future projects under the General Plan would be required to evaluate emissions compared
to BAAQMD’s project-level significance thresholds during individual environmental review. It should be
noted that the identification of this program-level impact does not preclude the finding of less-than-
significant impacts for subsequent projects that comply with BAAQMD screening criteria or meet applicable
thresholds of significance. However, due to the programmatic nature of the No Project Alternative, no
additional mitigating policies are available and the impact is considered significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
AQ-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would result in a
cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which
the Project region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state
ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed
quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors).
This section analyzes potential impacts related to air quality that could occur from the buildout associated
with the No Project Alternative in combination with the regional growth within the air basin. The Air Basin
is currently designated a nonattainment area for California and National O3, California and National PM2.5,
and California PM10 AAQS. At a plan-level, air quality impacts are measured by the potential for a project to
exceed BAAQMD’s significance criteria and contribute to the State and Federal nonattainment designations
in the Air Basin. Any project that produces a significant project-level regional air quality impact in an area
that is in nonattainment adds to the cumulative impact. Pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines Section
15130(b)(1), cumulative impacts can be based on the growth projections in a local General Plan.
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Consequently, the analysis in this chapter is the No Project Alternative’s contribution to cumulative impacts.
The No Project Alternative’s contribution to cumulative air quality impacts are identified under the impact
discussion in Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2. The analyses in these sections identify whether the No Project
Alternative would conflict with the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan (Impact AQ-1) or generate a substantial
increase in criteria air pollutants (Impact AQ-2). The No Project Alternative would result in a higher VMT
rate of growth than rate of service population growth and would generate a substantial increase in criteria
air pollutant emissions from construction and operational activities. Consequently, Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2
identified a regional air quality impact as significant.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 California Code of Regulations: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, California Code of Regulations: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, California Code of Regulations: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Criteria air pollutants generated by land uses within the No Project Alternative would cumulatively
contribute to the nonattainment designations of the SFBAAB. Construction activities associated with
individual development projects have the potential to generate substantial emissions of ROGs during
application of paints, and NOx and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) from use of heavy off-road
construction equipment and construction vehicle trips. Operation of the No Project Alternative would
generate an increase of ROGs, NOx, PM 10, and PM2.5 from vehicle trips generated by the proposed land
uses, area sources (e.g. landscape fuel use, consumer products), and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for
cooking and heating). The SFBAAB is designated nonattainment under the California AAQS for PM10 and
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nonattainment under both the California and National AAQS for PM2.5.3 Emissions of particulate matter
generated by the No Project Alternative would contribute to the SFBAAB’s particulate matter (PM10 and
PM2.5) nonattainment designations. The SFBAAB is designated nonattainment of the 1-hour California AAQS
and 8-hour California and National AAQS for O3.4 Emissions of ROGs, NOx, and particulate matter would
contribute to the SFBAAB’s O3 nonattainment designation. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Mitigation Measure
There are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact. Criteria air pollutant emissions generated
by land uses within the No Project Alternative would exceed the BAAQMD thresholds (see AQ-2). Air
quality impacts identified in Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2 are the No Project Alternative’s contribution to
cumulative air quality impacts in the SFBAAB. Mitigation measures proposed to reduce Project-related
emissions would reduce impacts to the extent feasible. Due to the programmatic nature of the No Project
Alternative, no additional mitigating policies or development standards are available. Air pollutant emissions
associated with the No Project Alternative would result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to air
quality impacts, and the No Project Alternative’s impacts would be significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
AQ-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would expose sensitive
receptors to substantial concentrations of air pollution.
Carbon Monoxide Hotspots
Areas of vehicle congestion have the potential to create pockets of Carbon Monoxide (CO) called hotspots.
These pockets have the potential to exceed the State one-hour standard of 20 parts per million (ppm) or the
eight-hour standard of 9.0 ppm. Because CO is produced in the greatest quantities from vehicle combustion
and does not readily disperse into the atmosphere, adherence to ambient air quality standards is typically
demonstrated through an analysis of localized CO concentrations. Hotspots are typically produced at
intersections, where traffic congestion is highest because vehicles queue for longer periods and are subject
to reduced speeds.
The General Plan under the No Project Alternative includes policies and strategies that, once adopted,
would aim to encourage bicycle, pedestrian, and transit use to tie land use and transportation, which
ensures consistency with VTA’s 2013 Congestion Management Program, as identified below. Within the
current Circulation Element, Policy 4-3, Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation Guidelines and the Cupertino
Bicycle Transportation Plan, requires the City to implement the programs and projects recommended in the
Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation Guidelines and in the Cupertino Bicycle Transportation Plan, as well as
other programs that promote this goal. Strategy 1 under this policy, The Pedestrian Guidelines, requires the
3 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2013. "Area Designations Maps: State and National,” updated April,
http://www.arb.ca.gov/desig/adm/adm.htm.
4 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2013. "Area Designations Maps: State and National,” updated April,
http://www.arb.ca.gov/desig/adm/adm.htm.
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City to implement the projects recommended in the Pedestrian Guidelines including; after engineering
review, and where found to be feasible, improve safety at selected intersections by one or more of the
following: prohibit right turn- on-red, add time to the pedestrian signal phase, construct a median and/or
reduce corner radii; where feasible provide missing sidewalks on arterial and collector streets and on
neighborhood streets as desired by residents; identify a citywide pedestrian circulation grid including
shortcuts, pathways and bridges, where needed, to close gaps in the pedestrian circulation system. Strategy
2, Pedestrian Grid, requires the City to consider developing a quarter-mile grid of safe, walk-able sidewalks
and paths to provide pedestrian access among residential, shopping, recreation and business locations.
Strategy 3, Safe Routes to School, requires the City to work with the School Districts to promote the Safe
Route to Schools program. Strategy 4, Pedestrian Time on Traffic Signals, requires the City to, with
engineering review; provide additional time for pedestrians to cross streets at appropriate intersections.
Added time would be most appropriate near shopping districts, schools and senior citizen developments.
This strategy should be considered even if it could reduce the Level of Service (LOS) for automobile traffic.
Strategy 5, Pedestrian Improvements, requires the City to enhance walking, consider various improvements
to roadways to make them more pedestrian friendly and less auto-centric. Where a median is provided, it
should be wide enough to safely accommodate pedestrians. Streets such as Homestead, Bollinger, Rainbow,
Prospect or Stelling should be evaluated for potential improvements for pedestrians. Working with the
neighborhood, consider reducing residential street widths to promote slower traffic and less pervious
surface. Strategy 6, Crosswalk Marking, Medians, and “Chokers,” requires the City to, following engineering
review, mark crosswalks with pavement treatment scaled to the speed of traffic. Use medians and “chokers”
to narrow the width of the street where feasible and appropriate. Strategy 7, Pedestrian/Bicycle Impact
Statement (PBIS), requires the City to encourage all public construction and private development projects
to submit a PBIS. For projects that require a TIA, the PBIS may be incorporated into the TIA. The impact of
the project on pedestrians and bicycles shall be reported in terms of safety, route connectivity, loss of
existing facilities, adequacy of proposed facilities, and potential adverse impact of proposed
pedestrian/bicycle programs on automobile traffic and vice versa. Strategy 8, Implementation of the Bicycle
Plan, requires the City to implement the Bikeway Network as recommended in the Bicycle Plan. Strategy 9,
Bicycle Facilities in New Developments, requires the City to encourage the developers of major new or
remodeled buildings to include secure interior and/or fully weather protected bicycle parking. Strategy 10,
Traffic Calming on Bicycle Routes, calls for the City to, where feasible and appropriate, implement traffic
calming on those bicycle routes where automobile traffic volumes are low. Bicycle traffic flows best where
automobile traffic volume and speeds are low and where there are no stop signs or traffic signals to hinder
through traffic flow. Strategy 11, Bicycle Parking, requires the City to provide bicycle parking in multi-
family residential developments and in commercial districts as required under Section 19.100.040 of the
City Municipal code. Policy 4-4, Regional Trail Development, requires the City to continue to plan and
provide for a comprehensive system of trails and pathways consistent with regional systems, including the
Bay Trail, Stevens Creek Corridor and Ridge Trail. The General Alignment of the Bay Trail, as shown in the
Association of Bay Area Governments’ Bay Trail planning document, is incorporated in the General Plan by
reference. Policy 4-5, Increased Use of Public Transit., requires the City to support and encourage the
increased use of public transit. Strategy 1 under this policy, Transit Facilities in New Developments, requires
the City to ensure all new development projects include amenities to support public transit such as: bus stop
shelters; space for transit vehicles to stop and maneuver as needed; transit maps and schedules. Encourage
commercial and institutional developments to support bus passes for employees. Strategy 3, Transit Stop
Amenities, requires the City to work with the VTA and adjacent property owners to provide attractive
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amenities such as seating, lighting and signage at all bus stops. Strategy 4, Vallco Park Transit Station,
requires the City to work with the VTA to study and develop a transit transfer station at Vallco Park.
Anticipate a multi-modal station that serves future light rail. Strategy 5, Rapid Transit, calls for the City to
work with the VTA to plan for and develop bus and/or light rail rapid transit services in the Stevens Creek
and north De Anza Corridors to take advantage of the potential increase in mixed-use activities in the De
Anza College customer base. Consider increased frequency of service to encourage ridership. Strategy 6,
Shuttle Service, requires the City to study the possibility of providing shuttle service to key commercial,
office and institutional locations in Cupertino. Policy 4-7, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs, requires
the City to balance the needs of pedestrians with desired traffic service. Where necessary and appropriate,
allow a lowered LOS standard to better accommodate pedestrians on major streets and at specific
intersections. Policy 4-10, Street Improvement Planning, requires the City to plan street improvements such
as curb cuts, sidewalks, bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash containers as an
integral part of a project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles
with the least possible disruption to the streetscape. Strategy 1 under this policy, Sidewalk Access to Parking
or Buildings, requires the City to examine sidewalk to parking areas or building frontages at the time
individual sites develop to regulate the entry to the site at a central point. Sidewalks in the Crossroads Area
shall be wide enough to accommodate increased pedestrian activity. Strategy 2, Bus Stop Turnouts in Street
Frontages, calls for the City to require bus stop turnouts, or partial turnouts, within the street frontage of a
new or redeveloping site. This policy does not apply to the Crossroads Area. Bus stops should include
benches, trash receptacles and other amenities as appropriate. Follow the VTA specifications for improving
bus stops. Policy 4-11, Safe Parking Lots, calls for the City to require parking lots that are safe for
pedestrians. Strategy 1, Safe Spaces for Pedestrians, calls for the City to require parking lot design and
construction to include clearly defined spaces for pedestrians so that foot traffic is separated from the
hazards of car traffic and people are directed from their cars to building entries. Policy 4-15, School Impacts
on Neighborhoods, requires the City to minimize the impact of school drop-off, pick-up and parking on
neighborhoods. Strategy 1 under this policy, Coordination with School Districts, requires the City to work
with the School Districts to develop plans and programs that encourage car/van-pooling, stagger hours of
adjacent schools, drop-off locations, encourage walking and bicycling to school. The City shall assist
Districts in the development of the “Safe Routes to School Program” to encourage more students walking
and bicycling and less use of auto access.
As demonstrated by the policies and strategies above, the No Project Alternative would be consistent with
the VTA’s 2013 Congestion Management Program.5 In addition, the SFBAAB has been designated
attainment under both the national and California AAQS for CO. Under existing and future vehicle emission
rates, a project would have to increase traffic volumes at a single intersection by more than 44,000 vehicles
per hour—or 24,000 vehicles per hour where vertical and/or horizontal mixing is substantially limited—in
order to generate a significant CO impact.6 The No Project Alternative would not increase traffic volumes at
affected intersections by more than 44,000 vehicles per hour or 24,000 vehicles per hour where vertical
and/or horizontal mixing is substantially limited. Trips associated with the No Project Alternative would not
exceed the screening criteria of the BAAQMD. Therefore, the No Project Alternative would not have the
5 Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), 2013. 2013 Congestion Management Program
http://www.vta.org/sfc/servlet.shepherd/version/download/068A0000001Q7pt, October.
6 Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), 2011 (Revised), CEQA Air Quality Guidelines.
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potential to substantially increase CO hotspots at intersections in Cupertino. Localized air quality impacts
related to mobile-source emissions would therefore be less than significant.
Toxic Air Contaminants – New Sources of Air Toxics
Various industrial and commercial processes (e.g. manufacturing, dry cleaning) allowed under the existing
General Plan would be expected to release TACs. TAC emissions generated by stationary and point sources
of emissions within the SFBAAB are regulated and controlled by BAAQMD. Emissions of TAC from mobile
sources are regulated by statewide rules and regulations, not by BAAQMD, and have the potential to
generate substantial concentrations of air pollutants.
Existing land uses that have the potential to generate substantial stationary sources of emissions that would
require a permit from BAAQMD for emissions of TACs include industrial land uses, such as chemical
processing facilities, chrome-plating facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline-dispensing facilities. Emissions of
stationary source TACs would be controlled by BAAQMD through permitting and would be subject to
further study and health risk assessment prior to the issuance of any necessary air quality permits under
BAAQMD Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review, and Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air
Contaminants.
Mobile sources of TACs are not regulated by BAAQMD. The primary mobile source of TACs within the City
of Cupertino is truck idling and use of off-road equipment at warehousing operations. Warehousing
operations could generate a substantial amount of Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) emissions from off-road
equipment use and truck idling. In addition, some warehousing and industrial facilities may include use of
transport refrigeration units (TRUs) for cold storage. New land uses in the City of Cupertino that are
permitted under the No Project Alternative that use tr ucks, including trucks with TRUs, could generate an
increase in DPM that would contribute to cancer and non-cancer health risk in the SFBAAB. Impacts could
occur at facilities that permit 100 or more truck trips per day or 40 or more trucks with TRUs within 1,000
feet of a sensitive land use. These new land uses could be near existing sensitive receptors within and outside
the City of Cupertino. In addition, trucks would travel on regional transportation routes through the
SFBAAB contributing to near-roadway DPM concentrations.
To reduce community risk and hazards from placement of new sources of air toxics, implementation of
current General Plan policies and strategies would minimize impacts. Policy 5-4, Air Pollution Effects of
New Development, requires the City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and
the impacts affecting new development. Strategy 1 under this policy, Toxic Air Contaminants, requires the
City to review projects for potential generation of toxic air contaminants at the time of approval and confer
with BAAQMD on controls needed if impacts are uncertain. Strategy 3, Planning Decisions, requires the
City to assess the potential for air pollution effects of future land use and transportation planning, and
ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of improving air quality. Policy 5-6, Air Pollution
Effects of Existing Development, requires the City to minimize the air quality impacts of existing
development. Strategy 5 requires the City to work with Santa Clara County to monitor and influence
improvement of emissions and dust from the Hanson and Stevens Creek Quarries on the West end of the
city.
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Within the current Land Use/Community Design Element Policy 2-6, Neighborhood Compatibility,
requires the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and
visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping,
walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans that reduce
incompatibilities between new development and existing residential neighborhoods through measures such
as: daylight planes for single-family development, minimum setback standards, landscape screening,
acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service areas away from residential uses and limitations on
hours of operation.
Current General Plan Policy 5-4, and the accompanying Strategy 1, Toxic Air Contaminants, would require
that projects that generate new sources of TACs would be required to reduce emissions. However, future
projects would need to ensure that they could achieve BAAQMD’s performance standards (ten in one
million [10E-06], PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3
, or the appropriate noncancer hazard index
exceeds 1.0) and consequently, mitigation is needed to ensure that new projects are evaluated in accordance
with BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines. Community risk and hazard impacts are significant.
Toxic Air Contaminants – Siting of Sensitive Receptors
Regulation of land uses falls outside California Air Resources Board (CARB) jurisdiction; however, CARB
developed and approved the Air Quality and Land Use Handbook: A Community Health Perspective (2005)
to provide guidance regarding the siting of sensitive land uses in the vicinity of freeways, distribution
centers, rail yards, ports, refineries, chrome-plating facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline-dispensing
facilities. This guidance document was developed to assess compatibility and associated health risks when
placing sensitive receptors near existing pollution sources.
CARB’s recommendations on the siting of new sensitive land uses were based on a compilation of recent
studies that evaluated data on the adverse health effects ensuing from proximity to air pollution sources. The
key observation in these studies is that proximity to air pollution sources substantially increases both
exposure and the potential for adverse health effects. There are three carcinogenic toxic air contaminants
that constitute the majority of the known health risks from motor vehicle traffic, DPM from trucks, and
benzene and 1,3 butadiene from passenger vehicles. Table 4.2-9, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft
EIR, shows a summary of CARB recommendations for siting new sensitive land uses within the vicinity of
AQ-pollutant sources. Recommendations in Table 4.2-9, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, are
based on data that show that localized air pollution exposures can be reduced by as much as 80 percent by
following CARB minimum distance separations.
Local air pollution sources in the City of Cupertino include mobile (roadways, including SR 85 and I-280)
and stationary/area sources (industrial, warehousing, commercial/retail, institutional, and residential land
uses). Figure 4.2-3, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, identifies several major areas of the city
that have the potential to expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations within 1,000
feet of the sources identified.
Stationary sources in Cupertino were identified using BAAQMD’s Stationary Source Screening Analysis
Tool. There are approximately 86 potential stationary sources in or near the City of Cupertino. Of these
sources, approximately 4 are industrial uses, 25 emergency diesel generators, 4 auto body repair and
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refinishing facilities, 23 gas stations, 13 dry cleaners, and 17 miscellaneous sources (e.g. technology
companies, city services, printing shops, furniture refinishing, etc.).
High-volume roadways with over 10,000 vehicles per day were also mapped using the California
Environmental Health Tracking Program’s (CEHTP’s) Traffic Linkage web service and 2040 traffic
projections from the traffic analysis prepared by Hexagon Transportation Consultants.7 A total of 13
high volume roadways were identified within 1,000 feet of the City, including I-280 and SR 85.
The Union Pacific (UP) rail line is included in Figure 4.2-3 since UP uses diesel-fueled locomotives, which
are a source of TAC emissions. Figure 4.2-3 also identifies a 500-foot screening area around high-volume
roadways and a 200-foot screening area for rail lines. Because these are screening distances, refined analysis
of the effects from many of the high volume roadways and rail lines may show much lower potential TAC
exposure and smaller buffer zones. A refined analysis or site-specific health risk assessment should be
conducted for all new sensitive sources that are sited within this area to determine the actual health impact.
Current General Plan policies and strategies would minimize emissions. Within the current Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-4, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, requires the City
to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Strategy 3 under this policy, Planning Decisions, requires the City to assess the potential for
air pollution effects of future land use and transportation planning, and ensure that planning decisions
support regional goals of improving air quality. Strategy 4, Environmental Review, requires the City to
evaluate the relationship of sensitive receptors, such as convalescent hospitals and residential uses, to
pollution sources through the environmental assessment of new development.
Within the current Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-29, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous Materials,
requires the City to assess future residents’ exposure to hazardous materials when new residential
development of childcare facilities are proposed in existing industrial and manufacturing areas. Do not allow
residential development if such hazardous conditions cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level of risk.
Within the current Land Use/ Community Design Element, Policy 2-6, Neighborhood Compatibility,
requires the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and
visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping,
walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans that reduce
incompatibilities between new development and existing residential neighborhoods through measures such
as: daylight planes for single-family development, minimum setback standards, landscape screening,
acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service areas away from residential uses and limitations on
hours of operation.
Implementation of General Plan Policy 5-4, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, and accompanying
Strategy 4, Environmental Review, and Policy 6-29, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous Materials, would
reduce impacts from placement of sensitive receptors proximate to major sources of air pollution. However,
future projects proximate to major sources of air pollution (i.e. when within 1,000 feet of an industrial
area) would need to ensure that they could achieve BAAQMD’s performance standards (ten in one million
7 California Environmental Health Tracking Program (CEHTP), 2013. Traffic linkage web service. http://www.ehib.org/
traffic_tool.jsp.
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[10E-06], PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3
, or the appropriate noncancer hazard index exceeds 1.0)
and consequently, mitigation is needed to ensure that new projects are evaluated in accordance with
BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Applicable Regulations
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
The No Project Alternative could result in the placement of sensitive receptors proximate to major sources
of air pollution or the siting of new sources of air pollution proximate to sensitive receptors in the city.
Non-residential land uses that generate truck trips may generate substantial quantities of air pollutants
within 1,000 feet of off-site sensitive receptors. In addition, proposed sensitive land uses in Cupertino may
be within 1,000 feet of major sources of air pollutants. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Mitigation Measure
Mitigation Measure AQ-4a: Applicants for future non-residential land uses within the city that: 1)
have the potential to generate 100 or more diesel truck trips per day or have 40 or more trucks with
operating diesel-powered TRUs, and 2) are within 1,000 feet of a sensitive land use (e.g. residential,
schools, hospitals, nursing homes), as measured from the property line of the proposed Project to the
property line of the nearest sensitive use, shall submit a health risk assessment (HRA) to the City of
Cupertino prior to future discretionary Project approval. The HRA shall be prepared in accordance with
policies and procedures of the State Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment and the Bay
Area Air Quality Management District. If the HRA shows that the incremental cancer risk exceeds ten
in one million (10E-06), PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3, or the appropriate noncancer hazard
index exceeds 1.0, the applicant will be required to identify and demonstrate that Best Available
Control Technologies for Toxics (T-BACTs) are capable of reducing potential cancer and noncancer risks
to an acceptable level, including appropriate enforcement mechanisms. T-BACTs may include but are
not limited to:
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Restricting idling on-site.
Electrifying warehousing docks.
Requiring use of newer equipment and/or vehicles.
Restricting offsite truck travel through the creation of truck routes.
T-BACTs identified in the HRA shall be identified as mitigation measures in the environmental
document and/or incorporated into the site development plan as a component of the proposed Project.
Mitigation Measure AQ-4b: Applicants for residential and other sensitive land use projects (e.g.
hospitals, nursing homes, day care centers) in Cupertino within 1,000 feet of a major sources of TACs
(e.g. warehouses, industrial areas, freeways, and roadways with traffic volumes over 10,000 vehicle per
day), as measured from the property line of the project to the property line of the source/edge of the
nearest travel lane, shall submit a health risk assessment (HRA) to the City of Cupertino prior to future
discretionary Project approval. The HRA shall be prepared in accordance with policies and procedures
of the State Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) and the Bay Area Air Quality
Management District. The latest OEHHA guidelines shall be used for the analysis, including age
sensitivity factors, breathing rates, and body weights appropriate for children age 0 to 16 years. If the
HRA shows that the incremental cancer risk exceeds ten in one million (10E-06), PM2.5 concentrations
exceed 0.3 μg/m3, or the appropriate noncancer hazard index exceeds 1.0, the applicant will be
required to identify and demonstrate that mitigation measures are capable of reducing potential cancer
and non-cancer risks to an acceptable level (i.e. below ten in one million or a hazard index of 1.0),
including appropriate enforcement mechanisms. Measures to reduce risk may include but are not
limited to:
Air intakes located away from high volume roadways and/or truck loading zones.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems of the buildings provided with appropriately sized
Maximum Efficiency Rating Value (MERV) filters.
Mitigation measures identified in the HRA shall be identified as mitigation measures in the
environmental document and/or incorporated into the site development plan as a component of the
proposed Project. The air intake design and MERV filter requirements shall be noted and/or reflected
on all building plans submitted to the City and shall be verified by the City’s Planning Division.
Buildout of the No Project Alternative could result in new sources of criteria air pollutant emissions and/or
toxic air contaminants near existing or planned sensitive receptors. Existing policies would reduce
concentrations of TACs and PM2.5 generated by new development. Review of projects by BAAQMD for
permitted sources of air toxics (e.g. industrial facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline dispensing facilities)
would ensure health risks are minimized. Mitigation Measure AQ-4a would ensure that mobile sources of
TACs not covered under BAAQMD permits are considered during subsequent project-level environmental
review. Development of individual projects would be required to achieve the incremental risk thresholds
established by BAAQMD, and impacts would be less than significant. Placement of new sensitive
receptors near major sources of TACs and PM2.5 could expose people to substantial pollutant concentrations.
Existing policies would reduce concentrations of criteria air pollutant emissions and air toxics generated by
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new development. Mitigation Measure AQ-4b would ensure that placement of sensitive receptors near
major sources of air pollution would achieve the incremental risk thresholds established by BAAQMD, and
impacts would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
AQ-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would result in a
cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which
the Project region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state
ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed
quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors).
Sources of objectionable odors may occur within the City. BAAQMD’s Regulation 7, Odorous Substances,
places general limitations on odorous substances and specific emission limitations on certain odorous
compounds. In addition, odors are also regulated under BAAQMD Regulation 1, Rule 1-301, Public
Nuisance, which states that “no person shall discharge from any source whatsoever such quantities of air
contaminants or other material which cause injury, detriment, nuisance or annoyance to any considerable
number of persons or the public; or which endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of any such
persons or the public, or which causes, or has a natural tendency to cause, injury or damage to business or
property.” Under BAAQMD’s Rule 1-301, a facility that receives three or more violation notices within a 30
day period can be declared a public nuisance.
There are two types of odor impacts: 1) siting sensitive receptors near nuisance odors, and 2) siting new
sources of nuisance odors near sensitive receptors. Table 4.2-10, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft
EIR, identifies screening distances from potential sources of objectionable odors within the SFBAAB. Odors
from these types of land uses are regulated under BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances.8
Siting Receptors Proximate to Odor Sources
Sensitive receptors, such as the residential uses associated with planned development under the No Project
Alternative, may be placed within the distances to these sources specified in Table 4.2-10, in Chapter 4.2,
Air Quality, of this Draft EIR. In general, the City’s land use plan designates residential areas and
commercial/industrial areas of the City to prevent potential mixing of incompatible land use types, with the
exception of mixed-use areas that combine commercial with residential. BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous
Substances, requires abatement of any nuisance generated by an odor complaint. Implementation of General
Plan policy would also reduce potential land use incompatibilities.
Within the current Land Use/ Community Design Element, Policy 2-6, Neighborhood Compatibility,
requires the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and
visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping,
8 It should be noted that while restaurants can generate odors, these sources are not identified by BAAQMD as nuisance odors since
they typically do not generate significant odors that affect a substantial number people. Larger restaurants that employ five or more people are
subject to BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances.
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walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans that reduce
incompatibilities between new development and existing residential neighborhoods through measures such
as: daylight planes for single-family development, minimum setback standards, landscape screening,
acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service areas away from residential uses and limitations on
hours of operation.
Because existing sources of odors are required to comply with BAAQMD Regulation 7, impacts to siting of
new sensitive land uses would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Health & Safety Code, Section 114149
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Siting New Odor Sources
While not all sources in Table 4.2-10, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, are found in Cupertino
(e.g. rendering plants, confined animal facilities), commercial and industrial areas in the City of Cupertino
have the potential to include land uses that generate objectionable odors. Buildout permitted under the No
Project Alternative could include new sources of odors, such as composting, greenwaste, and recycling
operations; food processing; chemical manufacturing; and painting/coating operations, because these are
permitted uses in the commercial and/or industrial areas in the City. Future environmental review could be
required for industrial projects listed in Table 4.2-8, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, to ensure
that sensitive land uses are not exposed to objectionable odors. BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous
Substances, requires abatement of any nuisance generating an odor complaint. Typical abatement includes
passing air through a drying agent followed by two successive beds of activated carbon to generate odor-free
air. Facilities listed in Table 4.2-10, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, would need to consider
measures to reduce odors as part of their CEQA review. Implementation of General Plan policies would
also reduce potential land use incompatibilities. Within the current Land Use/ Community Design Element,
Policy 2-6, Neighborhood Compatibility, requires the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential
neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with
adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures.
Create zoning or specific plans that reduce incompatibilities between new development and existing
residential neighborhoods through measures such as: daylight planes for single-family development,
minimum setback standards, landscape screening, acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service
areas away from residential uses and limitations on hours of operation. Within the current Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-4, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, requires the City
to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Strategy 3, Planning Decisions, requires the City to assess the potential for air pollution
effects of future land use and transportation planning, and ensure that planning decisions support regional
goals of improving air quality. Strategy 4, Environmental Review, requires the City to evaluate the
relationship of sensitive receptors, such as convalescent hospitals and residential uses, to pollution sources
through the environmental assessment of new development.
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Consequently, review of projects using BAAQMD’s odor screening distances during future CEQA review
and compliance with BAAQMD Regulation 7 would ensure that odor impacts are minimized and are less
than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Health & Safety Code, Section 114149
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AQ-6 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with
past, present and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in
significant cumulative impacts with respect to air quality.
As described under AQ-3, regional air quality impacts were identified as significant; therefore, in
combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, the No Project Alternative would result
in a significant cumulative impact with respect to air quality
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 California Code of Regulations: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, California Code of Regulations: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, California Code of Regulations: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Criteria air pollutants generated by land uses within the No Project Alternative would cumulatively
contribute to the nonattainment designations of the SFBAAB. Construction activities associated with
individual development projects have the potential to generate substantial emissions of ROGs during
application of paints, and NOx and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) from use of heavy off-road
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construction equipment and construction vehicle trips. Operation of the No Project Alternative would
generate an increase of ROGs, NOx, PM 10, and PM2.5 from vehicle trips generated by the proposed land
uses, area sources (e.g. landscape fuel use, consumer products), and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for
cooking and heating). The SFBAAB is designated nonattainment under the California AAQS for PM10 and
nonattainment under both the California and National AAQS for PM2.5.9 Emissions of particulate matter
generated by the No Project Alternative would contribute to the SFBAAB’s particulate matter (PM10 and
PM2.5) nonattainment designations. The SFBAAB is designated nonattainment of the 1-hour California AAQS
and 8-hour California and National AAQS for O3.10 Emissions of ROGs, NOx, and particulate matter would
contribute to the SFBAAB’s O3 nonattainment designation. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Mitigation Measures
There are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact. Criteria air pollutant emissions generated
by land uses within the No Project Alternative would exceed the BAAQMD thresholds (see AQ-2). Air
quality impacts identified in Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2 are the No Project Alternative’s contribution to
cumulative air quality impacts in the SFBAAB. Mitigation measures proposed to reduce Project-related
emissions would reduce impacts to the extent feasible. Due to the programmatic nature of the No Project
Alternative, no additional mitigating policies or development standards are available. Air pollutant emissions
associated with the No Project Alternative would result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to air
quality impacts, and the No Project Alternative’s impacts would be significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
5.1.6.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
BIO-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not have a substantial
adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on species
identified as a candidate, sensitive or special status species in local or
regional plans, policies, or regulations by the California Department of Fish
and Wildlife, or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Development and land use activities consistent with the No Project Alternative would occur in urbanized
areas where special-status species are generally not expected to occur. The potential for occurrence of
special-status species in developed areas is generally very remote in comparison to undeveloped lands with
natural habitat that contain essential habitat characteristics for the range of species known from the west
Cupertino vicinity.
Future development under the No Project Alternative would be required to comply with current General
Plan policies and strategies that would minimize to special-status species associated with potential future
9 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2013. "Area Designations Maps: State and National,” updated April,
http://www.arb.ca.gov/desig/adm/adm.htm.
10 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2013. "Area Designations Maps: State and National,” updated April,
http://www.arb.ca.gov/desig/adm/adm.htm.
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development under the proposed Project. Within the current General Plan Environmental
Resources/Sustainability, Policy 5-9, Development near Sensitive Areas, requires the City to encourage the
clustering of new development away from sensitive areas such as riparian corridors, wildlife habitat and
corridors, public open space preserves, and ridgelines. New developments in these areas must have a
harmonious landscaping plan approved prior to development. Strategy under this policy, Riparian Corridor
Protection, calls for the City to require riparian corridor protection through a riparian corridor ordinance
and through the development approval process. Policy 5-10, Landscaping Near Natural Vegetation, requires
the City to emphasize drought tolerant and pest resistant native and non-invasive, nonnative, drought
tolerant plants and ground covers when landscaping properties near natural vegetation, particularly for
control of erosion from disturbance to the natural terrain. Policy 5-11, Natural Area Protection, requires the
City to preserve and enhance the existing natural vegetation, landscape features and open space when new
development is proposed. The strategy under this policy, Native Plants, requires the City to encourage
drought tolerant native and drought tolerant, noninvasive, non-native plants and trees, and minimize lawn
area in the hillsides. Policy 5-14, Recreation and Wildlife Trails, requires the City to provide open space
linkages within and between properties for both recreational and wildlife activities, most specifically for the
benefit of wildlife that is threatened, endangered, or designated as species of special concern. The Strategy
under this policy calls for the City to require identification of creeks and water courses on site plans and
require that they be protected from adjacent development. Additionally, it must be stated that trail
easements for trail linkages may be required if analysis determines that they are needed.
Policy 5-19, Natural Water Bodies and Drainage Systems, calls for the City to require that site design respect
the natural topography and drainages to the extent practicable to reduce the amount of grading necessary
and limit disturbance to natural water bodies and natural drainage systems caused by development including
roads, highways, and bridges. Policy 5-22, Compact Development Away from Sensitive Areas, requires the
City to, where such measures do not conflict with other municipal purposes or goals, encourage, via zoning
ordinances, compact development located away from creeks, wetlands, and other sensitive areas. Policy 5-
27, Natural Water Courses, requires the City to retain and restore creek beds, riparian corridors,
watercourses and associated vegetation in their natural state to protect wildlife habitat and recreation
potential and assist groundwater percolation. Encourage land acquisition dedication of such areas. The
strategy under this policy, Santa Clara Valley Water District, requires the City to work with the Santa Clara
Valley Water District and other relevant regional agencies to enhance riparian corridors and provide
adequate flood control by use of flow increase mitigation measures.
However, some special-status bird species such as Cooper’s hawk and white-tailed kite could utilize the
remaining riparian corridors and heavily wooded areas for nesting, dispersal and other functions when they
pass through urbanized areas. More common birds protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act
(MBTA) may nest in trees and other landscaping on Project Component locations. Preconstruction surveys
are typically required to confirm that no bird nests in active use are present when tree and vegetation
removal is to occur during the bird-nesting season (February 1 to August 31). Given the remote potential
for occurrence of nesting birds at one or more of the Project Component sites and possibility that nests
could be inadvertently destroyed or nests abandoned as a result of construction activities, this would be
considered a potentially significant impact.
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Mitigation Measure
The following mitigation measure is recommended to minimize the possible loss or abandonment of nests of
birds protected under the federal MBTA and CDFG Code.
Mitigation Measure BIO-1: Nests of raptors and other birds shall be protected when in active use,
as required by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the California Department of Fish and Game
Code. If construction activities and any required tree removal occur during the breeding season
(February 1 and August 31), a qualified biologist shall be required to conduct surveys prior to tree
removal or construction activities. Preconstruction surveys are not required for tree removal or
construction activities outside the nesting period. If construction would occur during the nesting season
(February 1 to August 31), preconstruction surveys shall be conducted no more than 14 days prior to
the start of tree removal or construction. Preconstruction surveys shall be repeated at 14-day intervals
until construction has been initiated in the area after which surveys can be stopped. Locations of active
nests containing viable eggs or young birds shall be documented and protective measures implemented
under the direction of the qualified biologist until the nests no longer contain eggs or young birds.
Protective measures shall include establishment of clearly delineated exclusion zones (i.e. demarcated
by identifiable fencing, such as orange construction fencing or equivalent) around each nest location as
determined by a qualified biologist, taking into account the species of birds nesting, their tolerance for
disturbance and proximity to existing development. In general, exclusion zones shall be a minimum of
300 feet for raptors and 75 feet for passerines and other birds. The active nest within an exclusion zone
shall be monitored on a weekly basis throughout the nesting season to identify signs of disturbance and
confirm nesting status. The radius of an exclusion zone may be increased by the qualified biologist if
project activities are determined to be adversely affecting the nesting birds. Exclusion zones may be
reduced by the qualified biologist only in consultation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The protection measures shall remain in effect until the young have left the nest and are foraging
independently or the nest is no longer active.
With incorporation of the above Mitigation Measure BIO-1, impacts to special-status and non-special status
bird species that are protected under the federal MBTA and CDFG Code would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not have a substantial
adverse effect on riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the
California Department of Fish and Wildlife, or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service.
Development and land use activities consistent with the No Project Alternative components would occur in
urbanized areas where sensitive natural communities are absent, and no impact is therefore anticipated.
Significance Without Mitigation: No impact.
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BIO-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not have a substantial
adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool,
coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or
other means.
Development and land use activities consistent with the No Project Alternative components occur in
urbanized areas where jurisdictional waters are absent. Indirect impacts to wetlands and jurisdictional other
waters include: 1) an increase in the potential for sedimentation due to construction grading and ground
disturbance, 2) an increase in the potential for erosion due to increased runoff volumes generated by
impervious surfaces, and 3) an increase in the potential for water quality degradation due to increased levels
in non-point pollutants. However, indirect impacts could be largely avoided through effective
implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) during construction and compliance with water
quality controls. As discussed in Section 4.8.1.1, Regulatory Framework, Chapter 4.9, Hydrology and
Water Quality, of this Draft EIR, water quality in stor mwater runoff is regulated locally by the Santa Clara
Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP), which includes provision C.3 of the
Municipal Regional Storm Water National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit (MRP)
adopted by the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). Adherence to these
permit conditions requires new development or redevelopment projects to incorporate treatment measures,
an agreement to maintain them, and other appropriate source control and site design features that reduce
pollutants in runoff to the maximum extent practicable. Many of the requirements involve low impact
development (LID) practices such as the use of onsite infiltration that reduce pollutant loading.
Incorporation of these measures can even improve on existing conditions.
In addition, future development would be required to comply with the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System Permit (Municipal Code Chapter 9.18, Stormwater Pollution Prevention and Watershed
Protection) and implement a construction Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that require the
incorporation of BMPs to control sedimentation, erosion, and hazardous materials contamination of runoff
during construction.
The indirect water quality-related issues are discussed further in Section 5.1.3.5, Hydrology & Water
Quality, below. Implementation of these controls would reduce potential indirect impacts to less than
significant levels.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not interfere
substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or
wildlife species, or with established native resident or migratory wildlife
corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites.
Development and land use activities consistent with the No Project Alternative components would occur in
urbanized areas where sensitive wildlife resources and important wildlife movement corridors are no longer
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present because of existing development. Wildlife species common to urban and suburban habitat could be
displaced where existing structures are demolished and landscaping is removed as part of future
development. But these species are relatively abundant, and adapted to human disturbance. New structures
and landscaping installed as part of future development would provide replacement habitat for wildlife
species adapted to urban areas. Potential impacts on the movement of fish and wildlife, wildlife corridors, or
wildlife nursery sites would be considered less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not conflict with any
local polices or ordinances protecting biological resources.
Development and land use activities consistent with the No Project Alternative components would occur in
urbanized areas where sensitive biological and wetland resources are generally considered to be absent, and
no major conflicts with the relevant policies in the current General Plan and/or Municipal Code are
anticipated. Additionally, potential future development would have to comply with Chapters 14.12,
Protected Tree Ordinance, and 9.19, Water Protection Ordinance, of the Cupertino Municipal Code, as
described in Section 4.3.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.3, Biological Resources, of this draft
EIR, which require permit approval prior to removal of any protected trees or streamside modification,
respectively.
With adherence to the General Plan policies listed above in impact discussion BIO-1 of this chapter, and
cited Tree Ordinance, no conflicts with local plans and policies are anticipated, and impacts would be
considered less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-6 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to biological resources.
This Draft EIR, this EIR takes into account growth projected by the proposed Project within the Cupertino
city boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest
of Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of
Governments (ABAG). The geographic scope of the cumulative analysis for biological resources considers
the surrounding incorporated and unincorporated lands, and the region.
The potential impacts of proposed development under the No Project Alternative on biological resources
tend to be site-specific, and the overall cumulative effect would be dependent on the degree to which
significant vegetation and wildlife resources are protected on a particular site. This includes preservation of
well-developed native vegetation (native grasslands, oak woodlands, riparian woodland, etc.), populations of
special-status plant or animal species, and wetland features (including freshwater seeps and tributary
drainages).
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To some degree, cumulative development contributes to an incremental reduction in the amount of existing
wildlife habitat, particularly for birds and larger mammals. Habitat for species intolerant of human
disturbance can be lost as development encroaches into previously undeveloped areas, disrupting or
eliminating movement corridors and fragmenting the remaining suitable habitat retained within parks,
private open space, or undeveloped properties. New development in the region would result in further
conversion of existing natural habitats to urban and suburban conditions, limiting the existing habitat values
of the surrounding area. This could include further loss of wetlands and sensitive natural communities,
reduction in essential habitat for special-status species, removal of mature native trees and other important
wildlife habitat features, and obstruction of important wildlife movement corridors. Additional
development may also contribute to degradation of the aquatic habitat in the creeks throughout the region,
including the No Project component areas.
Grading associated with construction activities generally increases erosion and sedimentation, and urban
pollutants from new development would reduce water quality. However, most of the parcels within the
Project Component locations are already developed and occur within urbanized areas, thus avoiding or
diminishing effects on biological resources. With implementation of the Mitigation Measures BIO-1
identified below, the proposed Project would not make a significant contribution to cumulative impacts to
biological resources. Therefore, the proposed Project would result in a less-than-significant cumulative
impact on biological resources.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.1.6.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES
CULT-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not have the potential
to cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical
resource as defined in Section 15064.5.
The types of cultural resources that meet the definition of historical resources under CEQA generally
consist of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant for their traditional, cultural,
and/or historical associations. Historical architectural resources may be impacted by development allowed
under the current General Plan. Archaeological deposits are addressed in CULT-2, and human remains are
addressed below in impact discussion CULT-4, below.
As shown on Figure 4.4-1 and listed in Section 4.4.2.3, Historic Sites Within Project Components, in
Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR, several historical resources are within the boundaries of
some Cultural Resource Sites. Therefore, implementation of the No Project Alternative could have the
potential to directly impact cultural resources from potential new development at the following Cultural
Resource Sites:
Cultural Resource Site 15 (Not evaluated for National and/or California Register eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 58 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 19 (National Register/California Register/Local Landmark)
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Cultural Resource Site 25 (Local Landmark, National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 31 (Ineligible for National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 32 (California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 42 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 43 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 44 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 57 (National Register/Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 59 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 60 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 64 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 65 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 67 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 6811 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 66 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 6812 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 52 (California Register/Eligible for National Register)
Cultural Resource Site 53 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 54 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 62 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 55 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 68 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 41 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 49 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 50 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Where Cultural Resource Sites listed above and their immediate surroundings do not contain properties
currently on the California Register or appear to be eligible for listing on the California Register, as
described above, impacts from implementation of the No Project Alternative would result in less-than-
significant impacts on historical resources at these sites. However, for Cultural Resource Sites that contain
properties currently on the California Register or appear to be eligible for listing on the California Register
where the historical buildings might be demolished or materially altered to allow future development, this
Alternative would cause significant impacts. The following Cultural Resource Sites could be impacted by
future development under this Alternative:
11 Cultural Resource Site 68 is also in Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District) and Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Mall).
12 Cultural Resource Site 68 is also in Heart of the City Special Area and Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Mall).
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Heart of the City Specific Plan Area
Cultural Resource Site 19 (National Register/California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 25 (Local Landmark, National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 32 (California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 57 (National Register/Commemorative Site)
Monta Vista Special Center
Cultural Resource Site 52 (California Register/Eligible for National Register)
Even if the historical resources identified throughout the city, as shown in Figure 4.4-1 in Chapter 4.4,
Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR, were retained, future development under the No Project Alternative
could cause a significant impact on the historical resource in question if the new construction were
incompatible with the Cultural Resources Site relationships that characterize the existing property (for
example, new construction which extends to all proper ty lines where the historical pattern is to have
setbacks), or if the massing (height and bulk) of the new construction were incompatible with the historical
resource. Lastly, the design characteristics and materials of the new construction could cause an impact on
adjoining or nearby historical buildings (for example, a flat-roofed building with aluminum windows and a
rain-screen wall finish next to a gable-roofed building with period-revival stucco walls). Because future
development would continue to occur and function similar to what’s permitted under the current General
Plan and because the factors described above which could impair the historic integrity as a result of new
construction, the impacts on historical resources could be significant.
However, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would minimize potential
impacts to historic resources. Policy 2-62A, Historic Sites, directs the City to require that projects on
Historic Sites shall meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standard for Treatment of Historic Properties and
provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the historic significance
of the resource(s). The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written
description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the information. For
public and quasi-public sites, coordinate with property owner to allow public access of the historical site to
foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-owned sites, property owners
should be encouraged, but not required, to provide access to the public. Policy 2-62B, Commemorative
Sites, directs the City to require projects on Commemorative Sites shall provide a plaque, reader board
and/or other educational tool on the site to explain the historic significance of the resource. The plaque shall
include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written description and photograph and shall be
placed in a location where the public can view the information. For public and quasi-public sites, coordinate
with property owner to allow public access to the historical site to foster public awareness and provide
educational opportunities. For privately-owned sites, property owners should be encouraged, but not
required, to provide access to the public. Policy 2-62C, Community Landmarks, directs the City to require
projects on Landmark Sites shall provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tools on the site
to explain the historic significance of the resource. The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource,
date it was built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can
view the information. Policy 2-62D, Historic Mention/Interest Sites, requires the City to encourage
agencies that have jurisdiction over the historical resource to encourage rehabilitation of the resource and
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provide public access to foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities. These are sites
outside the City’s jurisdictions, but have contributed to the City’s historic past. Policy 2-62E, Incentives for
Preservation of Historic Resources, requires the City to utilize a variety of techniques to serve as incentives
toward fostering the preservation and rehabilitation of Historic Sites including: 1) allowing flexible
interpretation of zoning ordinance not essential to public health and safety. This could include flexibility as
to use, parking requirements and/or setback requirements; 2) Using the California Historical Building Code
for rehabilitation of historic structures; 3) tax rebates (Mills Act or Local tax rebates); 4) Financial incentives
such as grants/loans to assist rehabilitation efforts. Potential impacts from future development on historical
architectural resources could lead to: 1) demolition, which by definition results in the material impairment
of a resource’s ability to convey its significance; 2) inappropriate modification, which may use incompatible
materials, designs, or construction techniques in a manner that alters character-defining features; and
3)Inappropriate new construction, which could introduce incompatible new buildings that clash with an
established architectural context.
While any of these scenarios, especially demolition and alteration, have the potential to change the historic
fabric or setting of an architectural resource such that the resource’s ability to convey its significance may be
materially impaired, implementation of the General Plan policies and strategies identified above, as well as
compliance with federal and State laws, as described in Section 4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, above,
would ensure future development would not be detrimental or injurious to property or improvements in
the vicinity and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not have the potential
to cause substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to Section 15064.5.
Historical and pre-contact archaeological deposits that meet the definition of historical resources under
CEQA could be damaged or destroyed by ground-disturbing activities associated with future development
allowed under the current General Plan. Should this occur, the ability of the deposits to convey their
significance, either as containing information important in prehistory or history, or as possessing traditional
or cultural significance to Native American or other descendant communities, would be materially impaired.
Although future development would be likely occur on sites and in areas either already developed, and/or in
close proximity to existing residential and residential-serving development, where development would have
a lesser impact on historical archeological resources, the potential remains that archaeological deposits
could be discovered because the No Project Alternative would result in development on, or within the
vicinity of, several identified cultural resources as shown on Figure 4.4-1 in Chapter 4.4, Cultural
Resources, of this Draft EIR. In addition, the City of Cupertino in its entirety has not been systematically
surveyed, and much of the land remains unsurveyed. Approximately 25 percent of the land within the city
boundary and existing SOI has been surveyed for cultural resources. Therefore, it is possible that unrecorded
Native American prehistoric archaeological sites exist throughout the city that may have not been identified
or surveyed, including those that are buried under alluvial or fill soils due to the age of geologic deposits
within the city, which have the potential to contain prehistoric archaeological resources. Furthermore, prior
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to its development, much of the land within Cupertino was used as ranches and/or vineyards. Therefore,
there is a potential for significant subsurface historical archaeological features, including hollow-filled
features (e.g. privies and wells) and other historic debris.
Although soils throughout the city and any potential historic features have been disturbed by farming
operations and grading and trenching for development of existing buildings and structures, future
development permitted under the current General Plan could still contain subsurface archaeological
deposits. Any ground-disturbing activities related to future development permitted under this Alternative
have the potential to affect subsurface prehistoric archaeological resources that may be present. Based on the
significance criteria identified above, future development permitted under this Alternative would have a
significant impact on the environment if these ground-disturbing activities cause a substantial adverse change
in the significance of a historical archaeological resource. A substantial adverse change in the significance of
an historical archaeological resource would occur from its demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration
such that the significance of the resource would be materially impaired (CEQA Guidelines Section
15064.5(b)(1)).
The following General Plan policy and strategy, once adopted, would protect archaeologically sensitive areas
and would provide for the identification of archaeological deposits prior to actions that may disturb such
deposits. Policy 2-63, Archaeologically Sensitive Areas, requires the City to protect archaeologically
sensitive areas. The supporting strategy requires an investigation for development proposed in areas likely to
be archaeologically sensitive, such as along stream courses and in oak groves, to determine if significant
archaeological resources may be affected by the project. Also require appropriate mitigation measures in the
project design. Therefore, compliance of the General Plan policy and strategies above, and with federal and
State laws described in Section 4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources,
potential impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not have the potential
to directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site,
or unique geologic feature.
A review of the University of California’s Museum of Paleontology’s (UCMP) fossil locality database was
conducted, and the presence of Pleistocene deposits that are known to contain fossils indicates that the city
could contain paleontological resources.
Consequently, future development permitted under the No Project Alternative, as a result of continued
implementation of the current General Plan, would have a significant effect on the environment if it would
directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site. Although continued implementation
of the current General Plan would not in and of itself result in direct physical development, future
development as a result of implementation of the current General Plan could result in potentially significant
impacts to a unique paleontological resources or site, or unique geologic feature. Compliance with the
General Plan policies listed above under impact discussion CULT-1, along with compliance with federal and
State laws, as discussed in Section 4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, of
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this Draft EIR, would minimize the potential impact related to directly or indirectly destroying a unique
paleontological resource or site relating to construction and other ground-disturbing activities associated
with future development, would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not have the potential
to disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal
cemeteries.
Human remains associated with pre-contact archaeological deposits could exist in throughout Cupertino,
and could be encountered at the time potential future development occurs. The associated ground-
disturbing activities, such as site grading and trenching for utilities, have the potential to disturb human
remains interred outside of formal cemeteries. Descendant communities may ascribe religious or cultural
significance to such remains, and may view their disturbance as an unmitigable impact. Disturbance of
unknown human remains would be a significant impact.
However, any human remains encountered during ground-disturbing activities associated with future
development under implementation of the No Project Alternative would be subject to federal, State, and
local regulations, such as the California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, Public Resources Code
Section 5097.98, and the California Code of Regulations Section 15064.5(e) (CEQA), which state the
mandated procedures of conduct following the discovery of human remains. According to the provisions in
CEQA, if human remains are encountered at the site, all work in the immediate vicinity of the discovery
shall cease and necessary steps to ensure the integrity of the immediate area shall be taken. The Santa Clara
County Coroner shall be notified immediately. The Coroner shall then determine whether the remains are
Native American. If the Coroner determines the remains are Native American, the Coroner shall notify the
Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours, who will, in turn, notify the person the
NAHC identifies as the Most Likely Descendant (MLD) of any human remains. Further actions shall be
determined, in part, by the desires of the MLD. The MLD has 48 hours to make recommendations regarding
the disposition of the remains following notification from the NAHC of the discovery. If the MLD does not
make recommendations within 48 hours, the owner shall, with appropriate dignity, reinter the remains in an
area of the property secure from further disturbance. Alternatively, if the owner does not accept the MLD’s
recommendations, the owner or the descendent may request mediation by the NAHC. In addition, Policy 2-
64 requires the City to protect Native American burial sites and the supporting strategy requires that upon
the discovery of such burials during construction, project applicants shall take action prescribed by State
law.
Therefore, with the mandatory regulatory procedures and compliance with the General Plan policy and
strategy described above, potential impacts related to the potential discovery or disturbance to any human
remains accidently unearthed during construction activities associated with future development as a result
of implementation of the No Project Alternative would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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CULT-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in a
significant cumulative impacts with respect to cultural resources.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by this Alternative within the Cupertino city boundary and
SOI, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the
surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG). Potential future
development permitted under the current General Plan, has the potential to cumulatively impact historical
resources. Such impacts could result from more intensive land uses, incompatible site designs that impact
the historical integrity of nearby historical buildings and districts, and demolition of historical resources.
Further, development within the city boundary also has the potential to adversely affect archaeological
resources, paleontological resources, and human remains through their destruction or disturbance.
Therefore, before mitigation, development allowed under this alternative, in combination with other future
development in the region, has the potential to cause adverse cumulative impacts to cultural resources due
to their destruction or loss of integrity. However, the current and amended General Plan policies and
strategies, and mandatory regulation described in Section 4.4.3, Impact Discussion, in Chapter 4.4,
Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR, would avoid impacts to such resources that would occur from
development and land use changes allowed by the current General Plan. Therefore, past, present, and
reasonably foreseeable future development in Cupertino is not expected to have a significant effect on
cultural resources.
With implementation of Mitigation Measures CULT-1 through CULT-4 identified above, the No Project
Alternative is not anticipated to have a significant impact on cultural resources. Therefore, implementation
of the No Project Alternative would result in a less-than-significant contribution to cumulative cultural
resources impacts.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.1.6.5 GEOLOGY, SOILS, AND SEISMICITY
GEO-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not expose people or
structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss,
injury, or death involving surface rupture along a known active fault;
strong seismic ground shaking; seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction; and landslides.
To date, only one Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone has been mapped within Cupertino, as shown on
Figure 4.5-2 in Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, namely, the zone that flanks
the San Andreas Fault in the southwestern-most part of Cupertino. Protections afforded by the Alquist-
Priolo Act, as well as Municipal Code ordinances, as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework,
of Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, that empower the City to require detailed
geotechnical reports in areas of suspected geological hazards, suggest that the potential for ground rupture
would be mitigated for future development or construction in the city. However, in the event of a large,
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MW 6.7 or greater seismic event, much of the city is projected to experience “strong” ground shaking, with
the most intense shaking forecast for the northeast part of Cupertino. Based on published studies and maps
of Cupertino, the potential for seismically-induced liquefaction appears low, limited to narrow areas that
flank natural drainages such as Stevens, Regnart, and Calabazas Creeks. In contrast, the State-mapped
hazards for seismic-induced landslides appears to be extensive in the Foothills that occupy the southwest
part of the city. Municipal Code ordinances that empower the City to require detailed soils and/or
geotechnical reports in areas of suspected geological hazards, would minimize the potential for seismically-
induced landsliding for future development or construction in the southwest part of city.
Future development under the No Project alternative would be subject to the General Plan policies and
strategies that minimize risk from seismic hazards. Policy 6-1, Seismic/Geologic Review Process, requires
the City to evaluate new development proposals within mapped potential hazard zones using a formal
seismic/geologic review process, and to use Table 6-D in the General Plan to determine the level of review
required. Strategy 1, Acceptable Level of Risk, requires the City to encourage developers to consult with
design professionals regarding performance-based design to achieve levels of safety that exceed the Uniform
Building Code. The design criteria should be the maximum credible earthquake for that site. Hazardous
materials use and storage facilities should aim for the highest level of seismic resistance. Strategy 2,
Geotechnical and Structural Analysis, requires the City to require all developers to provide geotechnical
analyses per the requirements of the California Seismic Hazards Mapping Act and the California
Environmental Quality Act. In addition, require any site with a slope exceeding 10 percent to reference the
Landslide Hazard Potential Zone maps of the State of California. Strategy 3, Earthquake Resistant Design
Techniques, requires the City to encourage new earthquake-resistant design techniques in the design and
structural engineering of buildings. Strategy 4, Residential Construction Standards Upgrade, requires the
City to review construction standards for residences to reduce earthquake damage. Examples include
additional bracing for garage openings of two-story and split-level homes and increased first story bracing in
multiple family residences over parking garages. Encourage property owners to upgrade standards in these
situations. Strategy 5, Residential Upgrade Requirements, directs the City to require any residential facility
that is being increased more than 50 percent in price, or more than 50 percent in size, conform to the
building code then in existence throughout the entire structure. Owners of residential buildings with known
structural defects, such as un-reinforced garage openings, “Soft first story” construction, unbolted
foundations, or inadequate sheer walls are encouraged to take steps to remedy the problem and bring their
buildings up to the current building code. Strategy 6, Geotechnical Review Procedure, requires the City to
adopt a geotechnical review procedure that incorporates these concerns into the development review
process. Policy 6-2, Public Education on Seismic Safety, requires the City to encourage various public
education programs to help residents reduce earthquake hazards. Strategy 1, Covenant on Seismic Risk,
requires require developers to record a covenant to tell future residents in high-risk areas about the risk and
inform them that more information is in City Hall records. This is in addition to the State requirement that
information on the geological report is recorded on the face of subdivision maps. Strategy 2, Emergency
Preparedness, requires the City to publish and promote emergency preparedness activities and drills. Use
the Cupertino Scene and website to provide safety tips that may include identifying and correcting
household hazards, knowing how and when to turn off utilities, helping family members protect themselves
during and after an earthquake, recommending neighborhood preparation activities, and advising residents
to maintain an emergency supply kit containing first-aid supplies, food, drinking water and battery operated
radios and flashlight. Strategy 3, Neighborhood Response Groups, requires the City to encourage
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participation in Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. Train neighborhood groups to care
for themselves during disasters. Assist in neighborhood drills. Strategy 4, Dependent Populations, requires
the City to actively cooperate with State agencies that oversee facilities for vulnerable populations, to ensure
that such facilities conform to all health and safety requirements, including emergency planning, training,
exercises and employee education. Strategy 5, Foreign Language Emergency Information, requires the City
to obtain translated emergency preparedness materials and make them available to appropriate foreign
language populations.
In addition, new development in Cupertino would be required to comply with the CBC and the City’s
Building Code as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and
Seismicity, which contain criteria and standards that are designed to reduce ground rupture risks to
acceptable levels.
Through the implementation of the policies and strategies discussed above, along with compliance with the
CBC and City Building Code, the City would mitigate the risks associated with fault rupture, and the impact
would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in
substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil.
The No Project Alternative would not result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil. Substantial soil
erosion or loss of topsoil during construction could undermine structures and minor slopes, and this could
be a concern during buildout of under the existing General Plan. Under this alternative, buildout allocation
is limited and would result in the least amount of development. However, compliance with existing
regulatory requirements, such as implementation of grading erosion control measures as specified in the
City of Cupertino’s Municipal Code, as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter
4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, would reduce potential impacts under this alternative
from erosion and the loss of topsoil. Specifically, Section 16.08.110, requires the preparation of an Interim
Erosion and Sediment Control Plan, either integrated with the site map/grading plan or submitted
separately, to the Director of Public Works that calculates the maximum runoff from the site for the 10-year
storm event and describes measures to be undertaken to retain sediment on the site, a brief description of
the surface runoff and erosion control measures to be implemented, and vegetative measures to be
undertaken. Policy 5-10, Landscaping Near Natural Vegetation, requires the City to emphasize drought
tolerant and pest-resistant native and non-invasive, nonnative, drought tolerant plants and ground covers
when landscaping properties near natural vegetation, particularly for control of erosion from disturbance to
the natural terrain.
Policy 5-20, Reduction of Impervious Surfaces, requires the City to minimize storm water flow and erosion
impacts resulting from development. Strategy 1 requires the City to change City codes to include a formula
regulating how much paved surface is allowable on each lot. This would include driveways and patios
installed at the time of building or remodeling. Strategy 2 requires the City to encourage the use of non-
impervious materials for walkways and driveways. If used in a City or quasi-public area, mobility and access
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for handicapped should always take precedent. Strategy 3 requires the City to minimize impervious surface
areas, minimizing directly-connected impervious surfaces, maximizing onsite infiltration and using on-site
retaining facilities. 4. Encourage volunteer organizations to help restore and clean the creek beds. Finally,
Policy 6-48, Hillside Grading, requires the City to restrict the extent and timing of hillside grading
operation to April through October. Require perfor mance bonds during the remaining time to guarantee
the repair of any erosion damage. All graded slopes must be planted as soon as practical after grading is
complete. Furthermore, the future development permitted by the No Project Alternative would be
concentrated on sites either developed and/or underutilized, where development would result in limited
soil erosion or loss of topsoil. Therefore, adherence to existing regulatory requirements in the Municipal
Code and implementation of the General Plan policies would ensure that impacts associated with substantial
erosion and loss of topsoil would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in a
significant impact related to development on unstable geologic units and
soils or result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence,
liquefaction, or collapse.
Unstable geologic units are known to be present within the City of Cupertino. The impacts of such unstable
materials include, but may not be limited to subsidence where fill material may be highly compressible. Such
subsidence has been exacerbated by historical groundwater overdraft. Areas underlain by thick colluvium or
poorly engineered fill as well as low-lying areas may also be prone to subsidence. Therefore, certain areas
throughout the city may be at greater risk for seismically-induced liquefaction, although these areas appear
to be limited to land flanking natural drainages such as Stevens, Regnart, and Calabazas Creeks. Compliance
with Municipal Code requirements described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework of Chapter 4.5,
Geology, Soils, and Seismicity and General Plan policies outlined under Impact GEO-1 and GEO-2 above,
which can require site-specific soils and/or geotechnical studies for land development or construction in
areas of potential geologic instability (as shown on the City’s geologic hazard maps), would reduce the
potential impacts associated with soil instability to a less-than-significant level. Significance Without
Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not create substantial
risks to life or property as a result of its location on expansive soil, as
defined Section 1803.5.3 of the California Building Code, creating
substantial risks to life or property.
The pattern of expansive soils within the city is such that expansive soils (denoted by soils with high linear
extensibility and plasticity index) are most prevalent in the northeast part of Cupertino as shown in Figure
4.5-1 in Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils and Seismicity. However, future development in these areas would be
subject to the CBC regulations and provisions, as adopted in Chapter 16.04, Building Code, of the City’s
Municipal Code and enforced by the City during plan review prior to building permit issuance. The CBC
contains specific requirements for seismic safety, excavation, foundations, retaining walls, and site
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demolition, and also regulates grading activities, including drainage and erosion control. Further,
compliance with the General Plan policies listed above in impact discussion GEO-1 would require the
formal seismic and geologic evaluation of new development proposals that lie within mapped potential
hazard zones. Thus, compliance with existing regulations and policies would ensure that the potential future
development impacts permitted under the No Project Alternative would be reduced to a less-than-
significant level.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in a
significant cumulative impacts with respect to geology and soils.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by the No Project Alternative within the Cupertino city
boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of
Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments
(ABAG). Potential cumulative geological impacts could arise from a combination of the development of the
No Project Alternative together with future development in the immediate vicinity of the adjoining
jurisdictions.
Only one active earthquake fault (i.e. the San Andreas Fault Zone) has been mapped by the State of
California within the city, which is approximately 5 miles from city boundary the risk of primary fault
rupture on occupied buildings is judged low. Fur thermore, new development in Cupertino under this
alternative would be subject to CBC and Municipal Code requirements, as described in Section 4.5.1.1,
Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR. Compliance with
these building code requirements would, to the maximum extent practicable, reduce cumulative,
development-related impacts that relate to seismically-induced ground-shaking, liquefaction, and expansive
soils. Similarly, compliance with the General Plan policies and strategies, as listed above in impact discussion
GEO-1 of this chapter, as well as the City’s Ordinances pertaining to excavation and grading (i.e. Chapter
16.08, Excavations, Grading and Retaining Walls) including implementation of an Interim Erosion Control
Plan and various control measures, would minimize the cumulative impacts associated with soil erosion and
loss of topsoil to the maximum extent practicable. Therefore, the No Project Alternative would result in a
less-than-significant cumulative impact with respect to geology, soils, and seismicity.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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5.1.6.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
GHG-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not directly or
indirectly generate GHG emissions that may have a significant impact on
the environment.
Development under the No Project Alternative would contribute to global climate change through direct
and indirect emissions of GHG from transportation sources, energy (natural gas and purchased energy),
water use and wastewater generation, waste generation, and other, off-road equipment (e.g. landscape
equipment, construction activities).
Community-Wide GHG Emissions – No Project Alternative
BAAQMD has not adopted a 2040 per capita GHG threshold for operation-related GHG emissions.
However, a 2040 efficiency target was derived for the No Project Alternative based on the long-term GHG
reduction target for 2050 interpolated from Executive Order S-03-05, which is an 80 percent reduction
from 1990 levels by 2020. This methodology is consistent with CARB’s recommendations in the Update to
the Scoping Plan.13 The 2040 efficiency target would be 3.1◦MTCO2e per service population for the city.
The community-wide GHG emissions inventory for the No Project Alternative compared to existing
conditions is included in Table 5.1-6.
The GHG emissions in the City of Cupertino under this Alternative would decrease by 36,857 MTCO2e in
2040 compared to existing conditions. As shown in Table 5.1-6, community-wide GHG emissions in the city
at 2040 would also meet the 3.1 MTCO2e threshold, which is based on the long-term GHG reduction goal
of Executive Order S-03-05. Impacts from GHG emissions within the City of Cupertino would be less
than significant for long-term growth anticipated under the No Project Alternative.
In addition, the General Plan includes several policies and strategies that, once adopted, would reduce GHG
emissions from development projects to the maximum extent practicable. Within the Community Design
Element, Policy 2-2, Connections Between Special Areas, employment centers and the Community,
requires the City to provide strong connections between the major mixed-use Special Areas, employment
centers, and the surrounding community. Supporting strategies requires the City to enhance pedestrian and
bicycle connections from the major mixed-use Special Areas and employment centers to surrounding
neighborhoods and provide pedestrian and bicycle paths through new and redevelopment projects to
enhance public access to and through the development. Policy 2-9, Long Term Growth Boundary, requires
the City to allow modification of the long-term growth boundary only in conjunction with a comprehensive
review of the City’s General Plan. Policy 2-19, Jobs/Housing Balance, requires the City to strive for a more
balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Policy 2-27, Heart of the City Special Area, requires the City to
create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of mixed-use development; enhanced
activity gateways and nodes; and safe and efficient circulation and access for all modes of transportation.
13 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2014, Proposed First Update to the Climate Change Scoping Plan: Building on the
Framework, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/scopingplan/2013_update/draft_proposed_first_update.pdf, February
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Supporting strategies 1 and 2 require the City to maintain the Heart of the City Specific Plan as the primary
implementation tool for the City to use for this area and evaluate options on Stevens Creek Boulevard to
improve the pedestrian environment by proactively managing speed limits and traffic signal synchronization.
Policy 2-57, Pedestrian Access, require the City to create pedestrian access between new subdivisions and
school sites. Review existing neighborhood circulation plans to improve safety and access for pedestrians
and bicyclists to school sites, including completing accessible network of sidewalks and paths. Supporting
strategies require the City to implement the recommendations of the Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation
Plan and trail projects, evaluate any safety, security and privacy impacts and mitigations associated with trail
development and work with affected neighborhoods in locating trails.
Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability,
requires the City to incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s planning and development
system. Supporting strategies include requiring the City to appoint a Task Force or Commission to develop
an appropriate comprehensive annual Sustainability and Resource Plan for the City to write and keep
current the annual Tactical Plan and measurement of City-wide programs to help achieve the Environmental
Resources and Sustainability section of the General Plan; identify and evaluate resources, technologies,
products and the lifecycle cost of ownership for each recommended; and work with City staff to evaluate
the financial feasibility of the recommendations. The City would be required to encourage community
gardens, which provide a more livable environment by controlling physical factors such as temperature,
noise, and pollution. In addition, the City is required to adopt and implement energy policies and
implementation programs that include the City’s planning and regulatory process; conduct a Citywide
sustainability inventory in order to identify issues, opportunities and planning alternatives; and prepare and
implement a comprehensive sustainability energy plan as a part of the City’s General Plan. The supporting
energy plan would be designed to include the following:
Reduction of energy consumption.
Reduction of fossil fuels.
Use of renewable energy resources whenever possible.
Improve City-wide water usage and conservancy.
Reduce water consumption by the City.
Promote residential and business water reduction.
Policy 5-2, Conservation and Efficient Use of Energy Resources, requires the City to encourage the
maximum feasible conservation and efficient use of electrical power and natural gas resources for new and
existing residences, businesses, industrial and public uses. Supporting strategies require the City to do the
following:
Prepare and implement a comprehensive energy management plan for all applicable public facilities,
equipment, and procurement and construction practices.
Review and evaluate applicable City codes, ordinances, and procedures for inclusion of local, state, and
federal policies and standards that promote the conservation and efficient use of energy and for
consistency with the goal of sustainability. Change those that will promote energy efficiency without a
punitive effect.
Using life cycle cost analysis, identify City assets for replacement with more energy efficient
replacements.
GE
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JUNE 6, 2014
TAB
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th
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bo
u
n
d
a
r
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s
.
PG&E energy based on
PG
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s
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r
b
o
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t
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s
i
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r
20
2
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e
20
2
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em
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t
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m
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by
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l
a
t
o
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d
u
c
t
i
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n
s
fo
r
HGWP gases such as reductions
of
SF
6. Di
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s
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s
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d
on
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on
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s
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Ci
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s
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se
r
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p
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l
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in
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s
e
.
As
s
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m
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s
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pe
r
c
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t
of
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GH
G
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s
s
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la
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th
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CA
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s
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r
s
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1.
1
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d.
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t
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/
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a
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w
a
t
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r
.
In
c
l
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d
e
s
fu
g
i
t
i
v
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em
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s
s
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n
s
fr
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wa
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w
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d
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n
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.
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t
in
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in
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t
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use was based on the Water
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p
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Ev
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l
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pr
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p
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t
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a
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s
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s
.
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n
e
r
a
t
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d
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i
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OF
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2
0
0
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t
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m
a
t
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d
ba
s
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on
po
p
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t
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,
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p
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m
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m
m
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r
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i
a
l
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
)
,
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
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n
building permits
(C
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n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
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)
fo
r
Cu
p
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r
t
i
n
o
as
a pe
r
c
e
n
t
a
g
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of
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t
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r
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n
t
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n
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l
co
n
s
t
r
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t
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em
i
s
s
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fo
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c
a
s
t
s
ar
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as
s
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to
be
si
m
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l
a
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to
hi
s
t
o
r
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le
v
e
l
s
.
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r
e
c
a
s
t
s
fo
r
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
equipment use are based on the
No
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
po
p
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pr
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t
i
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s
,
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t
co
m
m
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r
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l
eq
u
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t
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on
th
e
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r
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p
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Ex
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l
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s
BA
A
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pe
r
m
i
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d
sources. Daily construction
em
i
s
s
i
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n
s
mu
l
t
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p
l
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d
by
34
7
da
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GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-71
Implement an incentive program to include such items as reduced permit fees for building projects that
exceed Title 24 requirements. Promote other incentives from the State, County, and Federal
Governments for improving energy efficiency by posting information regarding incentive, rebate, and
tax credit programs on the City’s web site. Let’s make learning about this easy and help those interested
get started!
Encourage the use of energy cogeneration systems through the provision of an awareness program
targeting the larger commercial and industrial users and public facilities.
Ensure designer, developers, applicants and builders meet California Title 24 Energy Efficient Building
Standards and encourage architects, building designers and contractors to exceed “Title 24”
requirements for new projects through the provision of incentives. Encourage either passive solar
heating and/or dark plaster interior with a cover for swimming pools, cabanas and other related
accessory uses where solar access is available. Encourage the use of alternative renewable sources where
feasible, and develop energy audits or subvention programs.
Require, as conditions of approval for new and renovated projects, the provision of energy
conservation/efficiency applications.
Encourage alternative, energy efficient transportation modes such as “clean” multi-modal public transit,
car and vanpooling, flexible work hours, and pedestrian and bicycle paths.
Policy 5-3, Green Building Design, requires the City to set standards for the design and construction of
energy and resource conserving/efficient building (Green Building Design). Supporting strategies require
the City to prepare and implement “Green Building” standards for all major private and public projects that
ensure reduction in energy consumption for new development through site and building design. The City
would be required to participate in and encourage building energy audits, where feasible, for commercial,
industrial and city facilities and convey to the business and industrial communities that energy
conservation/efficiency is, in the long term, economically beneficial. PG&E also offers energy evaluation
tools and services free of charge. In addition, the City would prepare a “Green Buildings” evaluation guide
for use by the city staff when reviewing projects, train appropriate staff in the design principles, costs and
benefits of energy conservation/efficient buildings and landscape design, conduct and/or participate in
“Green Buildings” informational seminars and workshops to include people involved in the design and
construction industry, land development, real estate sales, lending institutions, landscaping and design, the
building maintenance industry and prospective project applicants, and become a regular feature article in
the Cupertino Scene, do media outreach to the Courier and the Guide (San Jose Mercury) tape the
Sustainable Building and other conservation courses, or seminars and broadcast them on the City Channel as
well, and make them available at the Library.
Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of Existing Development, requires the City to minimize the air quality
impacts of existing development. Supporting strategies require the City to establish a Citywide public
education program regarding the implications of the Clean Air Act and provide information on ways to
reduce and control emissions; provide information about carpooling and restricting physical activities on
“Spare the Air” high-pollution days, expand the allowable home occupations in residentially zoned properties
to reduce the need to commute to work, increase planting of trees on City property and encourage the
practice on private property, maintain City use of fuel-efficient and low polluting vehicles, and work with
County to monitor and influence improvement of emissions and dust from the Hanson and Stevens Creek
Quarries on the West end of the City. Policy 5-7, Use of Open Fires and Fireplaces, requires the City to
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-72 JUNE 18, 2014
discourage high pollution fireplace use. Policy 5-28, Interagency Coordination, actively pursue interagency
coordination for regional water supply problem solving. Policy 5-29, Coordination of Local Conservation
Policies with Regionwide Conservation Policies, requires the City to Coordinate city-wide water
conservation efforts with the Santa Clara Valley Water District efforts being conducted on a regional scale.
Many of these conservation efforts are outlined in the Santa Clara Valley Water District Drought Plan and
Countywide Water Use Reduction program. Policy 5-30, Public Information Effort, requires the City to
provide the public information regarding water conservation/efficiency techniques, including how paving
and other impervious surfaces impact runoff. Policy 5-31, Water Use Efficiency, requires the City to
promote efficient use of water throughout the City.
Policy 5-38, Commercial/Industrial Recycling, requires the City to expand existing commercial and
industrial recycling programs to meet and surpass AB 939 waste stream reduction goals. Policy 5-39,
Residential Recycling, requires the City to streamline the residential curbside recycling program in the next
decade. Include all city-wide residential zoning districts in the curbside recycling program. Policy 5-40, On-
Site Garbage Area Dedication, requires the City to modify existing, and require for new developments, on-
site waste facility requirements for all multi-family residential percent garbage. Supporting strategy,
Ordinance Revisions, requires the City to revise existing ordinances relative to on-site waste facility
requirements for all multi-family residential, commercial and industrial zoning districts to require that a
minimum of 50 percent of garbage area be dedicated to recycling. Policy 5-41, Public Education, requires
the City to promote the existing public education program regarding the reduction of solid waste disposal
and recycling. Supporting strategy, Recycling Program Information, requires the City to use the local
television channel, the Cupertino Scene, the Internet and other available media to provide information to
the residents about the objectives of the City’s recycling program. Policy 5-42, City Recycling, requires the
City to encourage City staff to recycle at all City facilities. Policy 5-43, Re-distribution of Reusable
Materials, requires the City to re-distribute reusable materials, e.g. garage sales, materials exchange through
public education, encourage residents and businesses. Policy 5-44, Reuse of Building Materials, requires the
City to encourage the recycling and reuse of building materials, including recycling materials generated by
the demolition and remodeling of buildings.
Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, requires
the City to participate actively in developing regional approaches to meeting the transportation needs of the
residents of the Santa Clara Valley. Work closely with neighboring jurisdictions and agencies responsible for
roadways, transit facilities and transit services in Cupertino. Supporting strategies require the City to
minimize regional traffic impacts on Cupertino by supporting regional planning programs to manage the
jobs-housing balance throughout Santa Clara County and the Silicon Valley; ensure that connections are
provided to enable travelers to transition from one mode of transportation to another, e.g. bicycle to bus
;support the expansion of the VTA’s regional bus transit system and extension of bus and/or light rail rapid
transit into the Stevens Creek and De Anza Special Areas to fulfill the “spoke and wheel” transit system
designed to serve all of Santa Clara County. Policy 4-2, Reduced Reliance on the Use of Single-Occupant
Vehicles, require the City to promote a general decrease in reliance on private, mostly single-occupant
vehicles (SOV) by encouraging attractive alternatives. Supporting strategies require the City to encourage
the use of alternatives to the SOV including increased car-pooling, use of public transit, bicycling and
walking; encourage TSM programs for employees in both the public and private sectors by including
preferred parking for carpools, providing bus passes, encouraging compressed workweeks, and providing
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-73
incentives and rewards for bicycling and walking; encourage employers to use the internet to reduce
commute travel. Encourage schools, particularly at the college and high school levels, to make maximum
use of the internet to limit the need to travel to and from the campus; encourage new commercial
developments to provide shared office facilities, cafeterias, day-care facilities, lunchrooms, showers, bicycle
parking, home offices, shuttle buses to transit facilities and other amenities that encourage the use of transit,
bicycling, walking or telecommuting as commute modes to work. Provide pedestrian pathways and orient
buildings to the street to encourage pedestrian activity; provide space on appropriate streets for bus
turnouts, or safe and accessible bike lanes or pedestrian paths; use the Cupertino Scene and other media to
provide educational material on alternatives to the SOV; continue to work with the City Bicycle/Pedestrian
Advisory Committee, community groups and residents to eliminate hazards and barriers to bicycle and
pedestrian transportation.
Applicable Regulations
California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32)
Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act (SB 375)
Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Targets (Executive Order S-3-05)
Clean Car Standards – Pavely (AB 1493)
Renewable Portfolio Standards (SB 1078)
California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939)
California Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law (AB 341)
California Advanced Clean Cars CARB/ Low-Emission Vehicle Program – LEV III (Title 13 CCR)
Heavy-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Measure (Title 17 CCR)
Low Carbon Fuel Standard (Title 17 CCR)
California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 (AB 1881)
California Water Conservation Act of 2009 (SBX7-7)
Statewide Retail Provider Emissions Performance Standards (SB 1368).
Airborne Toxics Control Measure to Limit School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools (13 CCR 2480)
Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit Diesel-Fuel Commercial Vehicle Idling (13 CCR 2485)
In-Use Off-Road Diesel Idling Restriction (13 CCR 2449)
Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6)
California Green Building Code (Title 24, Part 11)
Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 20)
The General Plan establishes the framework for future growth and development in Cupertino. A General
Plan does not directly result in development without additional approvals. Before any development can
occur in the City, it is required to be analyzed for conformance with the General Plan, zoning requirements,
and other applicable local and state requirements; comply with the requirements of CEQA; and obtain all
necessary clearances and permits. As identified in Table 5.1-6, the No Project Alternative would achieve the
2035 performance criteria, which would ensure that the City is on a trajectory that is consistent with the
statewide GHG reduction goals. Consequently, short-term and long-term GHG emissions impacts of the
No Project Alternative are less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-74 JUNE 18, 2014
GHG-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not conflict with an
applicable plan, policy, or regulation of an agency adopted for the purpose
of reducing the emissions of GHGs.
The following plans have been adopted and are applicable for development in the City of Cupertino:
CARB’s Scoping Plan
In accordance with AB 32, CARB developed the Scoping Plan to outline the State’s strategy to achieve 1990
level emissions by year 2020. To estimate the reductions necessary, CARB projected statewide 2020 BAU
(Business As Usual) GHG emissions (i.e. GHG emissions in the absence of statewide emission reduction
measures). CARB identified that the State as a whole would be required to reduce GHG emissions by 28.5
percent from year 2020 BAU to achieve the targets of AB 32.14 The revised BAU 2020 forecast shows that
the state would have to reduce GHG emissions by 21.6 percent from BAU without implementation of the
Pavley GHG emissions standards for passenger vehicles and the 33 percent renewable portfolio standard
(RPS) for electricity, or 15.7 percent from the adjusted baseline (i.e. with Pavley and 33 percent RPS).15
Statewide strategies to reduce GHG emissions include the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), California
Appliance Energy Efficiency regulations; California Building Standards (i.e. CALGreen and the 2008
Building and Energy Efficiency Standards); California Renewable Energy Portfolio standard (33 percent
RPS); changes in the corporate average fuel economy standards (e.g. Pavley I and Pavley II); and other
measures that would ensure the State is on target to achieve the GHG emissions reduction goals of AB 32.
Statewide GHG emissions reduction measures that are being implemented over the next six years would
reduce the City’s GHG emissions.
As shown in Table 5.1-6, the City would achieve the 2020 target of AB 32 for cities within the SFBAAB.
New residential and non-residential construction in the City would achieve the current building and energy
efficiency standards. The new buildings would be constructed in conformance with CALGreen, which
requires high-efficiency water fixtures for indoor plumbing and water efficient irrigation systems. Therefore,
impacts would be less than significant.
MTC’s Plan Bay Area
To achieve ABAG’s/MTC’s sustainable vision for the Bay Area, the Plan Bay Area land use concept plan for
the region concentrates the majority of new population and employment growth in the region in PDAs.
PDAs are transit-oriented, infill development opportunity areas within existing communities. Overall, well
over two-thirds of all regional growth by 2040 is allocated within PDAs. PDAs are expected to
accommodate 80 percent (or over 525,570 units) of new housing and 66 percent (or 744,230) of new
jobs.16 In Cupertino, Plan Bay Area includes the Santa Clara VTA – City Cores, Special Areas & Station Areas
14 California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2008. October. Climate Change Proposed Scoping Plan, a Framework for Change.
15 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2012. Status of Scoping Plan Recommended Measures, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/
scopingplan/status_of_scoping_plan_measures.pdf.
16 Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2013. Plan Bay Area: Strategy for a
Sustainable Region, July 18.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-75
PDA.17 The current and amended General Plan includes the following policies, which would encourage new
growth in this mixed-use Special Area, consistent with Plan Bay Area’s vision.
The General Plan under the No Project Alternative includes policies and strategies, which would encourage
use of alternative modes of travel, which is also consistent with Plan Bay Area’s vision. Within the
Circulation Element, Policy 4-2, Reduced Reliance on the Use of Single-Occupant Vehicles, requires the
City to promote a general decrease in reliance on private, mostly single-occupant vehicles (SOV) by
encouraging attractive alternatives. Supporting strategies require the City to do the following:
Encourage the use of alternatives to the SOV including increased car-pooling, use of public transit,
bicycling and walking.
Encourage TSM programs for employees in both the public and private sectors by including preferred
parking for carpools, providing bus passes, encouraging compressed workweeks, and providing
incentives and rewards for bicycling and walking.
Encourage employers to use the internet to reduce commute travel. Encourage schools, particularly at
the college and high school levels, to make maximum use of the internet to limit the need to travel to
and from the campus.
Encourage new commercial developments to provide shared office facilities, cafeterias, day-care
facilities, lunchrooms, showers, bicycle parking, home offices, shuttle buses to transit facilities, and
other amenities that encourage the use of transit, bicycling, walking or telecommuting as commute
modes to work. Provide pedestrian pathways and orient buildings to the street to encourage pedestrian
activity.
Provide space on appropriate streets for bus turnouts, or safe and accessible bike lanes or pedestrian
paths.
Use the Cupertino Scene and other media to provide educational material on alternatives to the SOV.
Continue to work with the City Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, community groups and
residents to eliminate hazards and barriers to bicycle and pedestrian transportation.
Policy 4-3, Improve Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Throughout Cupertino, requires the City Expand
city-wide pedestrian and bicycle circulation in order to provide improved recreation, mobility, and safety.
Supporting strategies require the City to implement the projects recommended in the Pedestrian Guidelines
including consider developing a quarter-mile grid of safe, walk-able sidewalks and paths to provide
pedestrian access among residential, shopping, recreation and business locations and work with the School
Districts to promote the Safe Route to Schools program. The City is also required to provide additional time
for pedestrians to cross streets at appropriate intersections and consider various improvements to roadways
to make them more pedestrian friendly and less auto-centric. The City is required to implement a Bicycle
Plan, encourage the developers of major new or remodeled buildings to include secure interior and/or fully
weather protected bicycle parking, and provide bicycle parking in multi-family residential developments and
in commercial districts as required under Section 19.100.040 of the City code. Policy 4-4, Regional Trail
Development, requires the City to continue to plan and provide for a comprehensive system of trails and
pathways consistent with regional systems. Policy 4-5, Increased Use of Public Transit, requires the City to
17 Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2013. Plan Bay Area,
http://geocommons.com/maps/141979.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-76 JUNE 18, 2014
support and encourage the increased use of public transit. Policy 4-7, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs,
requires the City to balance the needs of pedestrians with desired traffic service. Policy 4-10, Street
Improvement Planning, requires the City to plan street improvements such as curb cuts, sidewalks, bus stop
turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash containers as an integral part of a project to ensure an
enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles with the least possible disruption to the
streetscape.
The Land Use/Community Design Element also includes Policy 2-1, Focused Development in Urban
Centers, which would encourage new growth in the PDA mixed-use corridor, which is consistent with Plan
Bay Area’s vision. Policy 2-1 focuses new development in major mixed-use corridors in the City by allowing
higher intensity development and increased building heights where appropriate in designated corridors,
gateways, sub areas and nodes. As identified by the list of policies that encourage use of alternative modes of
transportation and Policy 2-1 that focuses new growth in mixed-use areas, the No Project Alternative is
consistent with the objectives of the Plan Bay Area for growth within this PDA. Therefore, the No Project
Alternative is consistent with land use concept plan for Cupertino identified in the Plan Bay Area. Therefore,
impacts would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32)
Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act (SB 375)
Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Targets (Executive Order S-3-05)
Clean Car Standards – Pavely (AB 1493)
Renewable Portfolio Standards (SB 1078)
California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939)
California Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law (AB 341)
California Advanced Clean Cars CARB/ Low-Emission Vehicle Program – LEV III (Title 13 CCR)
Heavy-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Measure (Title 17 CCR)
Low Carbon Fuel Standard (Title 17 CCR)
California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 (AB 1881)
California Water Conservation Act of 2009 (SBX7-7)
Statewide Retail Provider Emissions Performance Standards (SB 1368).
Airborne Toxics Control Measure to Limit School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools (13 CCR 2480)
Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit Diesel-Fuel Commercial Vehicle Idling (13 CCR 2485)
In-Use Off-Road Diesel Idling Restriction (13 CCR 2449)
Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6)
California Green Building Code (Title 24, Part 11)
Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 20)
Implementation of the No Project Alternative policies as well as compliance with applicable State standards
listed and described above would ensure consistency with state and regional GHG reduction planning
efforts; therefore, this impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-77
GHG-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to GHG emissions.
As described above, GHG emissions related to the No Project Alternative are not confined to a particular air
basin but are dispersed worldwide. Therefore, the analysis in GHG-1 addresses cumulative impacts.
As identified above, the General Plan is a regulatory document that sets the framework for future growth
and development. A General Plan does not directly result in development without further approvals. Before
any development can occur in the city, it is required to be analyzed for conformance with the General Plan,
zoning requirements, and other applicable local and state requirements; comply with the requirements of
CEQA; and obtain all necessary clearances and permits. Furthermore, existing federal, State, and local
regulations and policies, including the City’s draft CAP, described throughout this chapter serve to reduce
community-wide GHG emissions. Continued compliance with these regulations and implementation of
existing policies, including applicable General Plan policies, would reduce impacts. As identified in Impact
GHG-1, Table 5.1-6 shows that the No Project Alternative would achieve the 2035 performance criteria,
which would ensure that the City is on a trajectory that is consistent with the statewide GHG reduction
goals. Consequently, cumulative GHG emissions impacts of the No Project Alternative are less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.1.6.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HAZ-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport,
use, or disposal of hazardous materials.
While commercially-available hazardous materials (e.g. fuels, solvents, paints, and some consumer
electronics) would be used at new construction sites conceivable under the No Project Alternative, and may
generate small amounts of hazardous waste, the waste would be handled in accordance with applicable
federal, State, and local laws, and regulations, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of
Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, of this Draft EIR. As a general matter, the potential future
development under the No Project Alternative would not include manufacturing or research processes that
generate substantial quantities of hazardous materials. The Santa Clara County Fire Department (SCCFD)
and City of Cupertino Building Division coordinate the review of building permits to ensure that hazardous
materials requirements are met prior to construction, including required separation between hazardous
materials and sensitive land uses, and proper hazardous materials storage facilities. Any businesses that
transport, generate, use, and/or dispose of hazardous materials within the No Project Alternative area
would also be subject to existing hazardous materials regulations, such as those implemented by Santa Clara
County Department of Environmental Health (DEH) Hazardous Materials Compliance Division (HMCD)
and hazardous materials permits from the SCCFD. The SCCFD also conducts inspections for fire safety and
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-78 JUNE 18, 2014
hazardous materials management of businesses and multi-family dwellings, in accordance with the City of
Cupertino Hazardous Materials Storage Ordinance.18
In addition, the current General Plan contains the following policies, to further ensure that new
development would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine
transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. Policy 6-28, Hazardous Materials Storage and Disposal,
directs the City to require the proper storage and disposal of hazardous materials to prevent leakage,
potential explosions, fire or the release of harmful fumes. Policy 6-29, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous
Materials, requires the City to assess future residents’ exposure to hazardous materials when new residential
development or childcare facilities are proposed in existing industrial and manufacturing areas, and does not
allow residential development or childcare facilities if such hazardous conditions cannot be mitigated to an
acceptable level of risk. Policy 6-30, Electromagnetic Fields, requires the City to consider potential hazards
from Electromagnetic Fields in the project review process. Policy 6-31, Alternative Products, requires the
City to continue to encourage residents and businesses to use non- and less-hazardous products, especially
less toxic pest control products, to slow the generation of new hazardous waste requiring disposal through
the county-wide program. Policy 6-32, Household Hazardous Wastes, requires the City to continue to
support and facilitate for residences and businesses a convenient opportunity to properly dispose of
hazardous waste. Policy 6-33, Hazardous Waste Dumping, requires the City to maintain information
channels to the residential and business communities about the illegality and danger of dumping hazardous
material and waste in the storm drain system or in creeks.
Compliance, with applicable federal, State, and local laws and regulations regarding handling of these
materials, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous
Materials, of this Draft EIR, and the General Plan policies listed above would ensure the risks associated
with release of hazardous materials into the environment from the routine transport, use, storage, or
disposal of hazardous materials following construction are would be a less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable
upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials
into the environment.
The No Project Alternative would facilitate new development, including residential, mixed-use, and
commercial uses, within Cupertino. Some of the new development could occur on properties that possibly
are contaminated and inactive, undergoing evaluation, and/or undergoing corrective action, as indicated in
Table 4.7.1 of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Construction of new buildings and
improvements could have the potential to release potentially hazardous soil-based materials into the
environment during site grading and excavation operations. Likewise, demolition of existing structures
could potentially result in release of hazardous building materials (e.g. asbestos, lead paint, etc.) into the
18 Cupertino City Code, Chapter 9.12. Hazardous Materials Storage.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-79
environment. Use of hazardous materials on newly developed properties after construction could
potentially include cleaning solvents, fertilizers, pesticides, and other materials used in the regular
maintenance and operation of the proposed uses. Compliance with applicable federal, State, and local laws
and regulations regarding handling of these materials described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework,
of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, the General Plan policies listed under Impact HAZ-1, and
compliance with the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan and Best Management Practices required for the
proposed Project (see Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, for additional detail), would ensure
future development under the proposed Project would not create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of
hazardous materials into the environment; therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not emit hazardous
emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances,
or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school.
Several public and private schools, including preschools, elementary, middle, and high schools, are located
within one-quarter mile of known hazardous wastes sites that may be redeveloped as part of the No Project
Alternative. The location of schools in proximity to the overall Study Area is described in detail in Chapter
3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR.
The SCCFD and City of Cupertino Building Division coordinate the review of building permits to ensure
that hazardous materials use requirements are met prior to construction, including required separation
between hazardous materials and sensitive land uses, and proper hazardous materials storage facilities. In
addition, this alternative could use hazardous materials. Future development under this alternative would be
required by the HMCD and the City of Cupertino to store, manage, and dispose of the materials in
accordance with the Unified Program.
While compliance with existing regulations described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of
Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials along with the General Plan policies listed under Impact
HAZ-1would reduce the potential for school children to be exposed to hazardous materials during both
construction and operation from future development permitted under the proposed Project, impacts would
be potentially significant.
The No Project Alternative could use hazardous materials; however, the No Project Alternative would be
required by the HMCD and the City of Cupertino to store, manage, and dispose of the materials in
accordance with the Unified Program. Therefore, compliance with existing regulations and implementation
Mitigation Measure HAZ-4a and HAZ-4b, as discussed in Impact HAZ-4 below, would reduce the potential
for school children to be exposed to hazardous materials from the No Project Alternative to a less-than-
significant level.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-80 JUNE 18, 2014
HAZ-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would be located on a site
which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant
to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment.
As shown on Table 4.7-2, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, of this Draft EIR, the search of
the DTSC’s EnviroStor Database revealed five sites, and the GeoTracker database search revealed 27 LUST
sites, on or within close proximity to the Project Component locations. The status of the LUST sites that are
listed as “Completed-Case Closed,” indicates that appropriate response actions have been completed to the
satisfaction of the San Francisco Bay RWQCB or the Santa Clara Water District and, in recent years, the
Santa Clara County DEH, as the local oversight agency. The status of the Hazardous Site Number 23 (Tosco
#11220), in the Heart of the City Special Area, is LUST site that is listed as “Open-Verification Monitoring,”
indicating that remediation phases are essentially completed and a monitoring program is occurring to
confirm successful completion of cleanup at the Site. The on-going monitoring at this Hazardous Material
Site is currently being reviewed by Santa Clara County DEH with RWQSB oversight.
Out of the 32 Hazardous Materials Sites, the following have a status that indicates additional action is
required to address the hazardous materials at these locations. These are described as follows:
Hazardous Site 1 (Cupertino Village Cleaners), located in the North Vallco Special Area, North Vallco
Gateway and Study Area 5 (Cupertino Village) is listed as “voluntary cleanup,” which means, in this case,
the Site has a confirmed release of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) that has impacted site soil, and the project
proponents have requested the DTSC to oversee evaluation, investigation, and/or cleanup activities and
have agreed to provide coverage for the DTSC’s costs. Based on the potential human health risk to
future tenants of the former dry cleaners tenant space, the DTSC has concluded that remediation (soil
excavation or soil vapor extraction [SVE]) would be required at this location.
Hazardous Site 2 (Anderson Chevrolet Dealership), located in the Heart of the City Special Area and
North Crossroads Node, is listed as sites where the DTSC has determined that a Preliminary
Endangerment Assessment (PEA) or other evaluation is required.
Hazardous Site 3 (Four-Phase System), located in the South De Anza Special Area, is listed as
undergoing closure.
Hazardous Site 5 (Acrian Incorporated), located in the Bubb Road Special Area, is listed as sites where
the DTSC has determined that a Preliminary Endangerment Assessment (PEA) or other evaluation is
required.
Hazardous Site 13 (PG&E), located in Study Area 3 (PG&E), is a listed as LUST site. Case closure for
the Site was issued by the Santa Clara County DEH on June 29, 2005. However, Santa Clara County
DEH has determined that residual contamination in soil remains at the Site that could pose an
unacceptable risk under certain site development activities such as site grading, excavation, or the
installation of water wells. Therefore, the impact of the disturbance of any residual contamination or the
installation of water well(s) in the vicinity of the residual contamination must be assessed and
appropriate action taken so that there is no significant impact to human health, safety, or the
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environment. This could necessitate additional sampling, health risk assessment, and mitigation
measures.
Because hazardous materials are known to be present in soil, soil gas, and/or groundwater for past land uses
at certain sites that may be redeveloped as part of the proposed Project, the direct contact, inhalation, or
ingestion of hazardous materials could potentially cause adverse health effects to construction workers and
future site users. The severity of health effects would depend on the contaminant(s), concentration, and use
of personal protective equipment during construction, and duration of exposure. The disturbance and
release of hazardous materials during earthwork activities, if present, could pose a hazard to construction
workers, nearby receptors, and the environment and impacts could be potentially significant.
Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measures are recommended to minimize potential impacts related to sites with
known hazardous materials:
Mitigation Measure HAZ-4a: Construction at the sites with known contamination shall be
conducted under a project-specific Environmental Site Management Plan (ESMP) that is prepared in
consultation with the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). The purpose of the ESMP is to
protect construction workers, the general public, the environment, and future site occupants from
subsurface hazardous materials previously identified at the site and to address the possibility of
encountering unknown contamination or hazards in the subsurface. The ESMP shall summarize soil and
groundwater analytical data collected on the project site during past investigations; identify
management options for excavated soil and groundwater, if contaminated media are encountered during
deep excavations; and identify monitoring, irrigation, or other wells requiring proper abandonment in
compliance with local, State, and federal laws, policies, and regulations.
The ESMP shall include measures for identifying, testing, and managing soil and groundwater suspected
of or known to contain hazardous materials. The ESMP shall: 1) provide procedures for evaluating,
handling, storing, testing, and disposing of soil and groundwater during project excavation and
dewatering activities, respectively; 2) describe required worker health and safety provisions for all
workers potentially exposed to hazardous materials in accordance with State and federal worker safety
regulations; and 3) designate personnel responsible for implementation of the ESMP.
Mitigation Measure HAZ-4b: For those sites with potential residual contamination in soil, gas, or
groundwater that are planned for redevelopment with an overlying occupied building, a vapor intrusion
assessment shall be performed by a licensed environmental professional. If the results of the vapor
intrusion assessment indicate the potential for significant vapor intrusion into an occupied building,
project design shall include vapor controls or source removal, as appropriate, in accordance with
regulatory agency requirements. Soil vapor mitigations or controls could include passive venting and/or
active venting. The vapor intrusion assessment and associated vapor controls or source removal can be
incorporated into the ESMP (Mitigation Measure HAZ-4a).
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
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HAZ-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not impair
implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan.
The City of Cupertino Office of Emergency Services is responsible for coordinating agency response to
disasters or other large-scale emergencies in the City of Cupertino with assistance from the Santa Clara
County Office of Emergency Services and the SCCFD. The Cupertino Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
establishes policy direction for emergency planning, mitigation, response, and recovery activities within the
City. The Cupertino EOP addresses interagency coordination, procedures to maintain communications with
county and State emergency response teams, and methods to assess the extent of damage and management
of volunteers.
In addition, the current General Plan has policies and strategies to ensure that new development would not
conflict with emergency operations in Cupertino. Policy 6-7, Early Project Review, requires the City to
involve the Fire Department in the early design stage of all projects requiring public review to assure Fire
Department input and modifications as needed. Policy 6-8, Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection
Guidelines, requires the City to coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new guidelines for fire
protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-9, Fire Prevention and Emergency
Preparedness, requires the City to promote fire prevention and emergency preparedness through city-
initiated public education programs, through the government television channel, the Internet and the
Cupertino Scene. Policy 6-14, Roadway Design, requires the City to involve the Fire Department in the
design of public roadways for review and comments. Attempt to ensure that roadways have frequent median
breaks for timely access to properties. Policy 6-15, Dead-End Street Access, requires the City to allow the
public use of private roadways during an emergency for hillside subdivisions that have dead-end public
streets longer than 1,000 feet or find a secondary means of access. Policy 6-16, Hillside Access Routes,
directs the city to require new hillside development to have frequent grade breaks in access routes to ensure
a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-17, Hillside Road Upgrades, directs the city to require new
hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire Code and City standards. Policy 6-18,
Private Residential Electronic Security Gates, requires the City to discourage the use of private residential
electronic security gates that act as a barrier to emergency personnel.
Policy 6-34, Promote Emergency Preparedness, requires the City to distribute multi-hazard emergency
preparedness information for all threats identified in the emergency plan. Information will be provided
through Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid and Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT) training, lectures and seminars on emergency preparedness, publication of monthly safety articles
in the Cupertino Scene, posting of information on the Emergency Preparedness website and coordination of
video and printed information at the library. Policy 6-38, Emergency Operations Center, requires the City
to ensure ongoing training of identified City employees on their functions/responsibilities in the EOC.
Policy 6-39, Emergency Public Information, requires the City to maintain an Emergency Public Information
program to be used during emergency situations. Policy 6-42, Evacuation Map, requires the City to prepare
and update periodically an evacuation map for the flood hazard areas and distribute it to the general public.
Compliance, with applicable federal, State, and local laws and regulations regarding handling of these
materials, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous
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Materials and the General Plan policies listed above would ensure future development under the No Project
Alternative would not interfere with, an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan
and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-6 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not expose people or
structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland
fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands.
According to CalFIRE there are no very high fire hazard severity zones with the Local Responsibility Areas
of Cupertino. Furthermore, in 2009 the City adopted a Wildland Urban Interface Fire Area map, which also
identified that there are no high or very high fire risk areas near the overall Study Area. Although this
indicated that the wildfire risk in the overall Study Area is low, there are many resources available to address
wildland fires should they arise, including the CalFIRE Strategic Plan, the CFC, and cooperative fire services
from SCCFD and CalFIRE, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.7,
Hazards and Hazardous Materials, of this Draft EIR. Because the overall Project Study Area is located in a
highly urbanized area at a distance from regional open space areas, they are not subjected to wildland fires.
In addition, the current General Plan contains the following policies to further ensure that wildfire hazards
would be minimized. Policy 6-3, Wild Fire Prevention Efforts, requires the City to coordinate wild fire
prevention efforts with adjacent jurisdictions. Policy 6-4, County Fire Hazard Reduction, requires the City
to encourage the County to put into effect the fire reduction policies of the County Public Safety Element.
Policy 6-5, Fuel Management to Reduce Fire Hazard, requires the City to encourage the Midpeninsula
Open Space District and the County Parks Department to continue efforts in fuel management to reduce
fire hazards. Policy 6-6, Green Fire Breaks, requires the City to encourage the Midpeninsula Open Space
District to consider “green” firebreak uses for open space lands. Policy 6-7, Early Project Review, requires
the City to involve the Fire Department in the early design stage of all projects requiring public review to
assure Fire Department input and modifications as needed. Policy 6-8, Commercial and Industrial Fire
Protection Guidelines, requires the City to coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new guidelines
for fire protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-10, Multi-Story Buildings Fire Risks,
requires the City to recognize that multi-story buildings of any land use type increase risks of fire, and
ensure that adequate fire protection is built into the design and require on-site fire suppression materials and
equipment to ensure the safety of the community. Policy 6-12, Smoke Detectors, directs the City to require
smoke detectors in all new residential units, and in all residential units at time of sale or rental, in
conformance with State law, and to continue to use the Cupertino Scene to publicize fire hazards correction
methods.
Compliance with these General Plan policies and strategies, combined with the policies listed above under
Impact HAZ-7, would ensure that impacts from wildland hazards would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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HAZ-7 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to hazards and hazardous
materials.
As discussed previously, development allowed under the No Project Alternative would not result in
significant impacts from the increased use of hazardous household materials and would not increase
exposure to potential hazards associated with wildland fires and aircraft operation. Future development
under the No Project Alternative would not interfere with implementation of emergency response plans. In
addition, potential project-level impacts associated with hazards and hazardous materials would be further
reduced through compliance with General Plan policies and strategies, other local, regional, State, and
federal regulations, and with implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-4a and HAZ-4b. Since impacts
associated with hazardous materials, wildland fire, and airport hazards are, by their nature, focus on specific
sites or areas, the less-than-significant impacts within the Project Study Area from the No Project
Alternative would not contribute to a cumulative increase in hazards in the immediate vicinity of the Project
Study Area or throughout the region. Therefore, the potential for cumulative impacts associated with safety
and hazards would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.1.6.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
HYDRO-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not violate any water
quality standards or waste discharge requirements.
Development or redevelopment that could occur under the No Project Alternative could affect drainage
patterns and increase the overall amount of impervious surfaces, thus creating changes to storm water flows
and water quality. Increasing the total area of impervious surfaces can result in a greater potential to
introduce pollutants to receiving waters. Urban runoff can carry a variety of pollutants (i.e. oil and grease,
metals, sediments, and pesticide residues from roadways, parking lots, rooftops, landscaped areas) and
deposit them into an adjacent waterway via the storm drain system. New construction could also result in
the degradation of water quality with the clearing and grading of sites, releasing sediment, oil and greases,
and other chemicals to nearby water bodies. However, future development permitted by the No Project
Alternative would be located on underutilized, infill sites, all of which have already been developed and
currently have a high percentage of impervious surfaces.
As discussed in Section 4.8.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of
this Draft EIR, water quality in storm water runoff is regulated locally by the Santa Clara Valley Urban
Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, which includes provisions C.3 of the Municipal Regional Storm
Water NPDES Permit adopted by the San Francisco Bay RWQCB.
Adherence to these permit conditions requires new development or redevelopment projects to incorporate
treatment measures, an agreement to maintain them, and other appropriate source control and site design
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features that reduce pollutants in runoff to the maximum extent practicable. Many of the requirements
involve LID practices such as the use of onsite infiltration that reduce pollutant loading. Incorporation of
these measures can even improve on existing conditions.
In addition, future development would be required to comply with the NPDES Permit (Municipal Code
Chapter 9.18, Stormwater Pollution Prevention and Watershed Protection) and implement a construction
SWPPP that require the incorporation of BMPs to control sedimentation, erosion, and hazardous materials
contamination of runoff during construction.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would protect water quality and
reduce potential impacts to water quality as a result of implementation of potential future development in
the city. Policy 5-19, Natural Water Bodies and Drainage Systems, directs the City to require that site design
respect the natural topography and drainages to the extent practicable to reduce the amount of grading
necessary and limit disturbance to natural water bodies and natural drainage systems caused by development
including roads, highways, and bridges. Policy 5-20, Reduction of Impervious Surfaces, requires the City to
minimize storm water flow and erosion impacts resulting from development. Strategy 1 requires the City to
change City codes to include a formula regulating how much paved surface is allowable on each lot. This
would include driveways and patios installed at the time of building or remodeling. Strategy 2 requires the
City to encourage the use of non-impervious materials for walkways and driveways. If used in a City or
quasi-public area, mobility and access for handicapped should always take precedent. Strategy 3 requires the
City to minimize impervious surface areas, minimizing directly connected impervious surfaces, maximizing
onsite infiltration and using on-site retaining facilities. Strategy 4 requires the City to encourage volunteer
organizations to help restore and clean the creek beds. Policy 5-21, Pollution and Flow Impacts, states that
the City, prior to making land use decisions, estimate increases in pollutant loads and flows resulting from
projected future development to avoid surface and groundwater quality impacts. The supporting Strategy,
Best Management Practices (BMPs), requires the incorporation of structural and nonstructural BMPs to
mitigate the projected increases in pollutant loads and flows. Policy 5-22, Compact Development Away
from Sensitive Areas, directs the City to where such measures do not conflict with other municipal purposes
or goals, encourage, via zoning ordinances, compact development located away from creeks, wetlands, and
other sensitive areas. Policy 5-23, Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning and Zoning, requires the
City to encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning and zoning by examining the
project in the context of the entire watershed area. Policy 5-32, Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention
Program, requires the City to support and participate in the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution
Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) in order to work cooperatively with other cities to improve the quality
of storm water runoff discharge into San Francisco Bay. Policy 5-33, Illicit Discharge into Storm Drains and
Waterways, requires the City to prohibit the discharge of pollutants and the illicit dumping of wastes into
the storm drains, creeks and waterways. Policy 5-34, Storm Water Runoff, requires the City to encourage
the reduction of impervious surface areas and investigate opportunities to retain or detain storm runoff on
new development.
Policy 5-35, Development on Septic Systems, requires the City to not permit urban development to occur
in areas not served by a sanitary sewer system, except in the previously approved Regnart Canyon
development. Policy 5-36, Mitigation for Potential Storm Water Impacts, directs the City to require
mitigation measures for potential storm water pollutant impacts for projects subject to environmental
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review. Policy 5-37, Pest-Resistant Landscaping and Design Features, requires the City to encourage the
consideration of pest-resistant landscaping and design features, and the incorporation of storm water
detention and retention techniques in the design and landscaping of proposed development projects. The
City will reduce runoff from the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers from public and quasi-public land
by employing companion planting techniques, using pesticides such as insecticidal soaps and oils, mulching
and release of beneficial insects as appropriate. In addition, Policy 6-48, Hillside Grading, protects water
quality from runoff by requiring the City to restrict the extent and timing of hillside grading operation to
April through October. Require performance bonds during the remaining time to guarantee the repair of
any erosion damage. All graded slopes must be planted as soon as practical after grading is complete.
While implementation of the No Project Alternative would permit new office, commercial and hotel
development, and new housing units to meet projected housing demands, as described above, it does not
contain any policies that would directly or indirectly result in violations of water quality standards.
Therefore, implementation of this alternative would have a less-than-significant impact on water quality.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not substantially
deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater
recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a
lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g. the production rate of
pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support
existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted).
Planned future development for the No Project Alternative could result in an increase in impervious
surfaces, which would reduce infiltration and could lead to reduced groundwater recharge. However, as
previously described, future development permitted by the No Project Alternative would be located on
underutilized, infill sites, most of which have already been developed and currently have a high percentage
of impervious surfaces. The Applicants for new development and redevelopment would be encouraged to
implement site design measures, LID, and BMPs, including infiltration features that will contribute to
groundwater recharge and minimize storm water runoff. As discussed above in Impact HYDRO-1, General
Plan Policy 5-20, Reduction of Impervious Surfaces, requires minimizing impervious surface areas,
minimizing directly connected impervious surfaces, maximizing onsite infiltration and using on-site
retaining facilities amongst other strategies. In addition, given the Project Component locations, future
development would not interfere with groundwater recharge that takes place in the McClellan Ponds
recharge facility located within the City of Cupertino or the creeks and streams that run through the city.
While buildout of the No Project Alternative could lead to an increased demand for water, which could lead
to an increase in groundwater pumping, water supply impacts are discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and
Service Systems, of this Draft EIR. As discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems, of this Draft
EIR, water retailers for the City of Cupertino obtain their water from groundwater wells and purchases
from SCVWD. The SCVWD’s 2010 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) indicates that there is a
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sufficient supply of water through 2035 even for multiple dry years.19 In addition, the SCVWD operates and
maintains an active groundwater recharge program with 18 major recharge systems, over 70 off-stream
ponds with a combined surface area of more than 320 acres, and over 30 local creeks. Runoff is captured in
the SCVWD’s reservoirs and released into both in-stream and off-stream recharge ponds for percolation
into the groundwater basin. In addition, imported water is delivered by the raw water conveyance system to
streams and ponds.20
The use of site design features required by provisions C.3 of the MRP and compliance with the City of
Cupertino General Plan policies listed above in Impact HYDRO-1 would reduce the impact of increased
impervious surfaces on groundwater recharge. Therefore, implementation of the No Project Alternative
would have a less-than-significant impact with respect to groundwater supplies or groundwater recharge.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not substantially alter
the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the
alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result
in substantial erosion, siltation, or flooding on- or off-site.
Development under the No Project Alternative would result in an increase in impervious surfaces. This
could result in an increase in storm water runoff, higher peak discharges to drainage channels, and the
potential to cause erosion or sedimentation in drainage swales and streams. Increased runoff volumes and
velocities could create nuisance flooding in areas without adequate drainage facilities. However, none of the
future development would require alteration of the course of an existing stream. Most of the future
development sites are in infill areas that are already developed or paved and new development on these sites
should not create a substantial increase in the amount of impervious surfaces.
All new development and redevelopment projects will be required, pursuant to the SCVURPPP and MRP,
to implement construction phase BMPs, post-construction design measures that encourage maximize
infiltration in pervious areas, and post-construction source control measures to help keep pollutants out of
storm water. In addition, post-construction storm water treatment measures are required for most projects
with 10,000 square feet or more of impervious surface and post-construction storm water quantity (flow
peak, volume, and duration) controls are required for projects in certain locations with one acre or more of
impervious surface, in accordance with Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program’s
Hydromodification Management Plan (HMP). This would minimize the amount of storm water runoff from
new development and redevelopment sites within the city.
During construction, project applicants are subject to the NPDES construction permit requirements,
including preparation of a SWPPP. In addition, Section 16.08.110, Interim Erosion and Sediment Control
Plan, of the City’s Municipal Code, requires preparation of an Interim Erosion and Sediment Control Plan,
19 Santa Clara Valley Water District, 2010. Urban Water Management Plan.
20 Santa Clara Valley Water District, 2010. Urban Water Management Plan.
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either integrated with the Site map/grading plan or submitted separately, that calculates the maximum
runoff from the Site for the ten-year storm event and describes measures to be undertaken to retain
sediment on the Site, a brief description of the surface runoff and erosion control measures to be
implemented, and vegetative measures to be undertaken. These control measures would further reduce the
potential for substantial erosion or siltation and would ensure that runoff from the Site is protective of the
beneficial uses of receiving waters. Once constructed, the requirements for new development or
redevelopment would include source control measures and site design measures that address storm water
runoff and would reduce the potential for erosion or siltation.
In addition, Provisions C.3 of the MRP require new development and redevelopment projects, meeting
certain criteria, to implement storm water treatment measures to contain site runoff, using specific
numeric sizing criteria based on volume and flow rate. For hydromodification projects, post-project runoff
shall not exceed estimated pre-project rates and durations where the increased storm water discharge rates
and durations would result in increased potential for erosion.21
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would further prevent soil erosion and
reduce impacts to water quality. Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy 5-10, Landscaping
Near Natural Vegetation, per the City’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance, Environmentally Preferable
Procurement Policy, and the Parks & Recreation Green Policies, requires the City to continue to emphasize
drought tolerant and pest-resistant native and non-invasive, non-native, drought tolerant plants and ground
covers when landscaping public and private properties near natural vegetation, particularly for control of
erosion from disturbance to the natural terrain. Policy 5-20, Reduction of Impervious Surfaces, discussed
above, requires the City to minimize storm water flow and erosion impacts resulting from development.
Policy 5-21, Pollution and Flow Impacts, states that the City, prior to making land use decisions, estimate
increases in pollutant loads and flows resulting from projected future development to avoid surface and
groundwater quality impacts. Strategy 1, Best Management Practices, require incorporation of structural
and non-structural Best Management Practices (BMPs) to mitigate the projected increases in pollutant loads
and flows. Policy 5-32, Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, requires the City to support and
participate in the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) in order to
work cooperatively with other cities to improve the quality of storm water runoff discharge into San
Francisco Bay. Strategy 1, Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management, requires the City to implement
the Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to
reduce urban runoff from project sites. Strategy 2, Hydromodification Management, requires the City to
implement the Hydromodification Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to
manage runoff flow and volume from project sites.
In addition, within the Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-48, Hillside Grading, requires the City to
restrict the extent and timing of hillside grading operation to April through October. Require performance
bonds during the remaining time to guarantee the repair of any erosion damage. All graded slopes must be
planted as soon as practical after grading is complete. Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy
5-23, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning, would require the
21 Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, 2014. Website: http://www.scvurppp-w2k.com/nd_wp.shtml#
other accessed on May 3, 2014.
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City to encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning and zoning by examining the
project in the context of the entire watershed area. Policy 5-24, Ground Water Recharge Sites, requires the
City to support the Santa Clara Valley Water District to find and develop groundwater recharge sites within
Cupertino’s planning area and provide for public recreation at the sites where possible. Policy 5-34, Storm
Water Runoff, includes a new strategy that would direct the City to “ensure that private development
includes adequate measures to treat stormwater runoff,” and to “maximize opportunities to filter, infiltrate,
store and reuse or evaporate stormwater runoff onsite.” As individual flood control or stormwater system
projects are proposed, such projects would undergo project-level environmental review that would evaluate
and address potential adverse physical effects. By encouraging improved stormwater drainage, management,
and retention, these policies would serve to prevent or reduce unmanaged runoff that could result in
erosion, siltation, or flooding.
With implementation of these erosion and sediment control measures and regulatory provisions to limit
runoff for new development and redevelopment sites, the No Project Alternative would not result in
significant increases in erosion and sedimentation or contribute to flooding on-site or off-site and impacts
would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not create or
contribute runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or
planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional
sources of polluted runoff.
As discussed previously, an increase in impervious surfaces with implementation of the No Project
Alternative could result in an increase in storm water runoff that could exceed the capacity of existing or
planned storm water drainage systems. Under existing conditions, portions of the City’s storm drainage
systems are not capable of containing the runoff from 10-year storm events.22 As shown in Table 4.8-2, in
Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR, there are existing deficiencies in the Project
Component locations that could be exacerbated by potential future development under the No Project
Alternative.
In accordance with established City and County requirements, new development and redevelopment
projects must be designed such that the storm water runoff generated from the ten-year storm is conveyed
in the storm drainage system (underground pipes or open channels) and the storm water runoff generated
from the 100-year design storm must be safely conveyed away from the site without creating and/or
contributing to downstream or upstream flooding conditions.23 In addition, the City of Cupertino requires
that post-project storm water runoff rates be less than or equal to pre-project values for projects subject to
hydromodification requirements and where storm drain facilities are at or have exceeded system
capacities.24 Therefore, future development associated with the No Project Alternative would not be
22 City of Cupertino, 1993. Storm Drain Master Plan.
23 Santa Clara County, 2007. Drainage Manual. Adopted August 14, 2007.
24 Verbal communication with Fletcher Parsons, BKF and Chad Mosley, City of Cupertino, March 19, 2014.
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expected to result in downstream flooding but could exacerbate existing conditions of the storm drain
system, which is undersized to convey the 10-year storm event at some locations.
New development and redevelopment within the city would not create substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff. During the construction phase, projects would be required to prepare SWPPPs and erosion
and sediment control plans, thus limiting the discharge of pollutants from the site. During operation,
projects must implement BMPs and LID measures that minimize the amount of storm water runoff and
associated pollutants. Additionally, new development or redevelopment projects would be required to pay
storm drainage fees pursuant to City Council Resolution No. 12-033, to support expansion and
improvements to the existing storm drain system. Also, as discussed in Impact HYDRO-1 and HYDRO-3,
the General Plan includes polices and strategies that, once adopted, would require the City to minimize
storm water flow and erosion impacts resulting from development, Support and participate in the
SCVURPPP, implement the Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s
Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff from project sites, require mitigation measures for
potential storm water pollutant impacts for projects subject to environmental review, and encourage the
consideration of design features, including the landscaping and design of storm water detention and
retention facilities proposed in development projects. Specifically, Policy 5-23, Storm Drainage
Management and Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning, would encourage development projects to
follow watershed-based planning and zoning by examining the project in the context of the entire watershed
area. By encouraging improved stormwater drainage, including project-practices to prevent runoff, this
policy would serve to deploy strategies to decrease runoff and prevent increases to stormwater entering the
drainage system.
Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy 5-23, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance
with Watershed-Based Planning, would encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning
and zoning by examining the project in the context of the entire watershed area. Policy 5-32, Urban Runoff
Pollution Prevention Program, requires the City to support and participate in the Santa Clara Valley Urban
Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) in order to work cooperatively with other cities to
improve the quality of storm water runoff discharge into San Francisco Bay. By encouraging improved
stormwater drainage, management, and retention, these policies would serve to prevent or reduce
unmanaged runoff that could exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or
provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff.
Implementation of General Plan policies and strategies aimed at reducing storm water and compliance with
the mandatory regulation outlined in this discussion, once adopted, would ensure development consistent
with this Alternative would not require significant expansions of the existing storm water drainage
infrastructure Therefore, impacts associated with future development runoff would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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HYDRO-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not otherwise
substantially degrade water quality.
Increased runoff from the construction of impermeable surfaces as the Project Component locations are
developed could worsen water quality in the storm water runoff. Pollutants commonly associated with
construction sites that can impact storm water are sediments, nutrients, trace metals, pesticides, oil, grease,
fuels, and miscellaneous construction wastes. Pollutants generated from the proposed land uses of the
Project Study Area may include sediment, nutrients, bacteria and viruses, oil and grease, metals, organics,
pesticides/herbicides, and trash/debris.
As required by City and County storm water management guidelines, BMPs would be implemented during
both construction and operation of the No Project Alternative. These BMPs would control and prevent the
release of sediment, debris, and other pollutants into receiving water bodies. Implementation of BMPs
during construction would be in accordance with the provisions of the SWPPP, which would minimize the
release of sediment, soil, and other pollutants. Operational BMPs would be required to meet MRP
requirements, which include site design, source control, and treatment control measures to treat and
control runoff before it enters the storm drain system or receiving water bodies. With Implementation of
General Plan Policies listed under Impact HYDRO-4 and the BMPs in accordance with City and County
requirements, the potential impact on water quality would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-6 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not place housing
within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a Federal Flood Hazard
Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation
map or place structures that would impede or redirect flood flows within a
100-year flood hazard area.
Implementation of the proposed Project would not result in the development of residential structures in
existing FEMA-designated 100-year floodplains or Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). As shown on Figure
4.8-4 in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR, the areas within Cupertino and the
Sphere of Influence (SOI) that are within the 100-year floodplain are limited and are areas located
immediately adjacent to creeks and drainage channels that travel through the city. The Project Components
locations relative to the 100-year floodplains are shown on Figure 4.8-4.
Regnart Creek and Calabasas Creek and their associated 100-year floodplains pass through portions of the
South De Anza and the Heart of the City Special Areas, which are proposed to include new housing and/or
new development. However, the FEMA floodplain maps state that the 100-year flood would be contained
within the channels of these creeks at some of the locations within the Special Areas. At other locations, the
width of the floodplain parallels the creek channels and varies in width between 50 to 100 feet. Because the
City of Cupertino and Santa Clara County have restrictions on construction within 50 feet of a stream, new
residences or structures would not be located within the 100-year floodplain. Calabasas Creek and its
associated 100-year floodplain also passes through the North Vallco Park Special Area. However, no new
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housing is proposed in the portion of the North Vallco Park Special Area where the 100-year floodplain is
located. Also, because the floodplain is only 100 feet wide at this location and there are restrictions on
construction next to streams, no other structures will be built in the floodplain. General Plan and Zoning
Ordinance Conformance Sites 39, 44, and 45 are also in areas mapped as including the 100-year floodplain.
However, these sites are proposed to be rezoned as PR (park and recreation) so no new housing or
structures would be located in these areas.
As described in Section 4.8.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this
Draft EIR, under the subheading “Waterways,” the creeks that run through Cupertino pose little threat of
flooding as a result of effort by the City and SCVWD to modify, restore and improve the flow channels and
implement erosion control measures to reduce impacts from flooding.
The General Plan includes policies and supporting strategies that, once adopted, would reduce impacts from
flooding and ensure potential impacts from flooding would not occur with the implementation of the
potential future development. Policy 5-27, Natural Water Courses, requires the City to retain and restore
creek beds, riparian corridors, watercourses and associated vegetation in their natural state to protect
wildlife habitat and recreation potential and assist groundwater percolation. Encourage land acquisition or
dedication of such areas. The supporting Strategy, Santa Clara Valley Water District, requires the City to
work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District and other relevant regional agencies to enhance riparian
corridors and provide adequate flood control by use of flow increase mitigation measures. Policy 6-42,
Evacuation Map, requires the City to prepare and update periodically an evacuation map for the flood hazard
areas and distribute it to the general public. Policy 6-43, Flood Insurance Map Rates, requires the City to
ensure that FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps are developed for the City of Cupertino. Policy 6-46, New
Construction in Flood Plains, requires the City to adopt stringent land use, zoning and building code
regulations limiting new construction in the already urbanized flood hazard areas recognized by the Federal
Flood Insurance Administrator. Strategy 1, Finish Floor Level, require the City to install the first floor finish
level of all habitable space of new construction above the inundation level of a projected 100-year flood.
Strategy 2, Description of Flood Zone Regulation, requires the City to publish a description of flood zone
regulations and a map of potential flood hazard areas in the Cupertino Scene. Policy 6-47, Dwellings in
Natural Flood Plain, require the City to regulate closely all types of habitable development in natural flood
plains. This includes prohibiting fill materials and obstructions that may increase flood potential downstream
or modify the natural riparian corridors.
In addition, the City of Cupertino has adopted local standards for construction in floodplain areas,25 and
together with Santa Clara County, there are restrictions on construction within 50 feet of a stream, which
includes most of the designated 100-year floodplains within the city.26 If future development were to be
constructed within the 100-year flood zone, it would require the placement of fill to elevate structures
above the 100-year floodplain elevation. In order for the development to be considered outside of the
floodplain and no longer subject to special flood hazard requirements, the applicant would have to submit an
application to FEMA for a Letter of Map Revision – Fill (LOMR-F) after the fill has been placed. After
FEMA has revised the FIRM to show that the future development is now outside of the SFHA, the City
25 City of Cupertino, Municipal Code Chapter 16.52, Prevention of Flood Damage.
26 City of Cupertino, Municipal Code, Chapter 9.19, Water Resource Protection.
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would no longer be required to apply the minimum NFIP floodplain management standards to structures
built on the land and the mandatory flood insurance requirements would no longer apply. However, as part
of its floodplain management strategy, to reduce possible loss of life and property in the event of a flood, the
City would encourage compliance with as many of the standards as financially feasible.
Construction within SFHAs is governed by the City’s Municipal Code Chapter 16.52 (Prevention of Flood
Damage), Section 16.52.040 (General Standards), which sets forth construction requirements for
development that would minimize flood hazard risks, including anchoring and flood-proofing; limitations on
use for structures below the base flood elevation; use of materials and utility equipment resistant to flood
damage; the requirement that electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air conditioning equipment and
other service facilities be designed and/or located to prevent water from entering or accumulating within
the components during flood conditions; and the requirement that all new and replacement water supply
and sanitary sewage systems be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the system
and discharge from systems into floodwaters.
Because the No Project alternative would not include the placement of housing within the 100-year
floodplain, would include planning for management of flood flows, and would require any new construction
to comply with General Plan policies, the City Municipal Code, and Santa Clara County water course
protection requirements, which limit construction within 50 feet of a stream, the potential for flood hazards
would be reduced to less-than-significant levels.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-7 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not expose people or
structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding,
including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam.
According to mapping compiled by ABAG and the Office of Emergency Services (OES),27 as shown on
Figure 4.8-5, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR, portions of Cupertino are
within the Stevens Creek Reservoir inundation zone.
Dam inundation zones are based on the highly unlikely scenario of a total catastrophic dam failure occurring
in a very short period of time. Existing state and local regulations address the potential for flood hazards as a
result of dam failure. The Stevens Creek Reservoir is under the jurisdiction of the California Department of
Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD), which conducts annual inspections and reviews all
aspects of dam safety. The dam has been assessed for seismic stability and will withstand the maximum
credible earthquake. The SCVWD is also planning to implement additional remedial measures to assure the
continued safe operation of the dam. Dam owners are also required to maintain EAPs that include
procedures for damage assessment and emergency warnings. In addition, the City of Cupertino in
27 Association of Bay Area Governments, 2003. Dam Inundation Hazard Map for Cupertino, Website www.abag.ca.gov/cgi-
bin/pickdamx.pl (accessed April 9, 2014).
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conjunction with Santa Clara County addresses the possibility of dam failure in the Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan (LHMP), which also provides emergency response actions.
The probability of dam failure is extremely low and the City of Cupertino and Santa Clara County have
never been impacted by a major dam failure. Furthermore, the General Plan includes policies and strategies
that, once adopted, would aim to reduce impacts from dam failure. Within the Health and Safety Element,
Policy 6-44, Emergency Response to Dam Failure, requires the City to ensure that Cupertino is prepared to
respond to a potential dam failure. Supporting Strategy 1 and 2 require the City to maintain a dam
emergency and evacuation plan and coordinate dam-related evacuation plans with the City of Sunnyvale to
ensure that traffic management between the two cities facilitates life safety. Policy 6-49, Stability of Existing
Water Storage Facilities, requires the City to assure the structural integrity of water storage facilities.
Strategy, Coordination with other Agencies, requires the City to work closely with the San Jose Water
Company and owners of other water storage facilities to develop and implement a program to monitor the
stability of all existing water storage facilities and related improvements, such as: distribution lines,
connections and other system-components.
Therefore, given these policies and strategies and adherence to the Joint Stevens Creek Dam Failure Plan
together with the very low probability of dam failure and that the dam has been assessed for seismic stability
and will withstand the maximum credible earthquake, implementation of the L would not expose people or
structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death in the case of dam failure and impacts are considered
to be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-8 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not be impacted by
inundation as a result of a seiche, tsunami, or mudflow.
Because the City of Cupertino is more than 8 miles south of San Francisco Bay and is more than 100 feet
above mean sea level (msl), there is no potential for a tsunami to impact the Project Study Area.28 There are
no large bodies of water within the City of Cupertino that could generate seiches, but the City is located
just north of Stevens Creek Reservoir. A seiche could theoretically occur in this reservoir as the result of an
earthquake or other disturbance, but the flooding impact would less than that of the dam inundation zone.
Although limited portions of the southern tip of Cupertino are within areas that could result in landslides
and debris flows, these areas are primarily open space or very low-density hillside homes. None of the
Project Component locations are within ABAG mapped rainfall-induced landslide or earthquake-induced
landslide zones. Therefore, impacts due to seiches, tsunamis, or mudflows would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
28 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014. Interactive Tsunami Inundation Map. Accessed at: http://gis.abag.ca.gov/
website/Tsunami/index.html on April 5, 2014.
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HYDRO-9 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would/would not result in
less than significant cumulative impacts with respect to water quality.
As discussed in Chapter 4, Environmental Evaluation, of this Draft EIR, this EIR takes into account growth
projected by the No Project Alternative within the Cupertino city boundary and SOI, in combination with
impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by
the ABAG. The geographic context used for the cumulative assessment of water quality and hydrology
impacts encompasses the six watersheds, which encompass the City of Cupertino. Cumulative impacts can
occur when impacts that are significant or less than significant from a No Project Alternative combine with
similar impacts from other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable projects in a similar geographic area.
As discussed previously, implementation of the No Project Alternative would require conformance with
State and local policies that would reduce hydrology and water quality impacts to less-than-significant
levels. When applicable, any additional new development within the city would be subject, on a project-by-
project basis, to independent CEQA review as well as policies in the Cupertino General Plan, design
guidelines, Zoning Ordinance, and other applicable City requirements that reduce impacts related to
hydrology and water quality. More specifically, potential changes related to storm water quality, storm water
flows, drainage, impervious surfaces, and flooding would be minimized via the implementation of storm
water control measures, retention, infiltration, and LID measures, and review by the City’s Public Works
Department to integrate measures to reduce potential flooding impacts.
All cumulative projects would be subject to similar permit requirements and would be required to comply
with City ordinances and General Plan policies, as well as numerous water quality regulations that control
construction related and operational discharge of pollutants in storm water. The water quality regulations
implemented by the San Francisco Bay RWQCB take a basin-wide approach and consider water quality
impairment in a regional context. For example, the NPDES Construction Permit ties receiving water
limitations and basin plan objectives to terms and conditions of the permit, and the MS4 Permit works with
all municipalities to manage storm water systems to be collectively protective of water quality. For these
reasons, impacts of the No Project Alternative on hydrology and water quality are not cumulatively
considerable and the cumulative impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.1.6.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING
LU-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not physically divide
an established community.
Implementation of the No Project Alternative would result in a significant impact if it would lead to new
development or physical features that would divide existing communities. The physical division of an
established community typically refers to the construction of a physical feature (such as a wall, interstate
highway, or railroad tracks) or the removal of a means of access (such as a local road or bridge) that would
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impair mobility within an existing community, or between a community and outlying areas. An example of a
physical feature that would divide an existing community is an airport, roadway, or railroad track through an
existing community that could constrain travel from one side of the community to another or impair travel
to areas outside of the community.
Under this alternative, development allocations would not be replenished, and development would continue
to occur and function similar to existing conditions; therefore, would be concentrated on sites either
developed and/or underutilized, and/or in close proximity to existing residential and residential-serving
development, where future development would have. Future development under the No Project Alternative
would retain the existing roadway patterns and do not propose any new major roadways or other physical
features through existing residential neighborhoods or other communities that would create new barriers in
the Project Study Area. New development in currently developed areas would occur as allowed under
current remaining development allocations and would include office, commercial, hotel and residential
development without dividing any existing communities.
The designation of sites for office, commercial, hotel and higher density residential development would not
physically divide any of the areas where Project Component locations are identified, because the vicinity of
the Sites would all retain their predominant existing uses for office, commercial, hotel and residential use,
and would not require any new roads or other features that would divide a community. Accordingly, impacts
would be less than significant.
Furthermore, future development under the No Project Alternative would be required to be consistent with
the following General Plan polices promote cohesive and compatible neighborhoods and prevent new
development from dividing existing uses where different land uses abut one another.
Within the Land Use and Community Design Element of the General Plan, there are several policies that
encourage cohesive development. Policy 2-2, Connections between Special Areas, Employment Centers and
the Community, requires the City to provide June 17, 2014strong connections between the mixed-use
Special Areas, employment centers and the surrounding community. Policy 2-5, Distinct Neighborhoods,
requires the City to plan for neighborhoods that have distinctive edges, an identifiable center and safe
pedestrian and bicycle access to surrounding uses. Policy 2-6, Neighborhood Compatibility, requires the
City to minimize potential conflicts between residential neighborhoods and more intense developments
with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate
measures, and create zoning requirements or specific plans that reduce incompatibilities between new
development and existing residential neighborhoods through various measures.
Policy 2-13, Urban Building Forms, requires the City to concentrate urban building forms in the mixed-use
Special Areas, which would focus development in the Special Areas and away from existing low density
residential neighborhoods. Policy 2-16, Single-Family Residential Design, requires the City to preserve the
character of residential neighborhoods by requiring new development to be compatible with the existing
neighborhood. Policy 2-23, Compatibility of Lot Sizes, requires the City to ensure that zoning, subdivision
and lot line adjustment requests related to lot size or lot design consider the need to preserve the existing
pattern of lot development which would encourage the development of similar development as opposed to
development which would not be compatible with the neighborhood.
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Policy 2-24, Monta Vista Neighborhood, requires the City to retain and enhance Monta Vista as a residential,
commercial and industrial area, with adequate pedestrian and bicycle access. Under this policy, the
commercial district should serve as a neighborhood commercial center for Monta Vista and its adjoining
neighborhoods. Mixed-use with residential is encouraged. The industrial area should be retained to provide
small-scale light industrial and service industrial opportunities, while remaining compatible with the
surrounding residential and commercial uses. Policy 2-30, South Vallco Park Gateway, requires the City to
retain and enhance South Vallco Park Gateway as a large-scale commercial area that is a regional commercial
(including hotel), office and entertainment center with supporting residential development. Policy 2-31,
Homestead Road Special Area, requires the City to create an integrated, mixed-use commercial and housing
village along Homestead Road, consisting of three integrated areas. Each area will be master planned, with
special attention to the interconnectivity of these areas. Policy 2-47, Big Box Development, requires the
City to consider approving big box development if it is compatible with the surrounding area in terms of
building mass and traffic, and is consistent with the City’s economic development goals.
In order to provide easy access to recreation services, thereby creating an integrated community, the
General Plan includes Policy 2-75, Park Walking Distance, which requires the City to ensure that each
household is within a half-mile walk of a neighborhood park, or community park with neighborhood
facilities, and that the route is reasonably free of physical barriers, including streets with heavy traffic. Under
this policy, wherever possible, the City shall also provide pedestrian links between parks. When considering
locating public and quasi-public activities in commercial or office land use designated areas, the General
Plan provides direction by establishing the following criteria in Policy 2-89, Public and Quasi-Public
Activities: The proposed project must have similar building forms, population, traffic, noise and
infrastructure impacts as the existing land use categories. Additionally, in order to retain continuity of
development, under this policy the proposed project must maintain a commercial interface in commercial
designations by offering retail activities, creating a storefront appearance or other design or use options that
are similar to commercial activities.
The General Plan includes policies regarding the location and operation of New Drive-up Services (Policy
2-91) and Late Evening Entertainment (Policy 2-92) in order to promote orderly development of such uses
such that they do not divide the community. Policy 2-91, New Drive-up Services, requires the City to
permit new drive-up service facilities for commercial, industrial or institutional use only when adequate
circulation, parking, noise control, architecture features, and landscaping are compatible with the visual
character of the surrounding uses and residential areas are adequately buffered, while Policy 2-92, Late
Evening Entertainment Activities, requires the City to discourage late-evening entertainment activities such
as cocktail lounges, recreational facilities and theaters in the major mixed use corridors where they abut
low-density residential properties. Under this policy such uses may be considered with conditional use
permit review when the entrances and uses are located away from sensitive receptors/uses and appropriate
mitigation measures such as adequate planting, policing, parking designated away from sensitive receptors
are incorporated.
Additionally, policies within the Circulation Element also support the cohesive development of the City.
Policy 4-8, Roadway Plans that Complement the Needs of Adjacent Land Use, requires the City to design
roadways based on efficient alignments, appropriate number and widths of traffic lanes, inclusion of medians,
parking and bicycle lanes and the suitable width and location of sidewalks as needed to support the adjacent
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properties. Policy 2-7, Defined and Balanced Circulation System, requires the city to balance the roadway
system between automobile and pedestrian/bicycle needs. The General Plan encourages designing local
streets to satisfy the aesthetic requirements of the area served. In general, the aesthetics of a street will be
improved if it can be narrower rather than wider, include significant landscaping with shade trees, and
provide safe and convenient places for people to bicycle and walk. Policy 4-14, Limited Street Closures,
requires the City to not close streets unless there is a demonstrated safety or over-whelming through traffic
problem and there are no acceptable alternatives. The policy recognizes that closures may shift traffic to
other local streets, thus moving the problem from one neighborhood to another. Finally, Policy 4-16,
Transportation Noise, Fumes and Hazards, requires the City to, in addition to limiting through traffic
volume on local streets, protect the community from noise, fumes and hazards caused by the City’s
transportation system. The quarries on Stevens Canyon Road, Stevens Creek Boulevard and Foothill
Boulevard are major sources of transportation noise.
Potential future development in all Zoning Districts would be subject to the City’s discretionary review
processes, including, as necessary, the issuance of Developmental Permits, and Architectural and Site
Approval and Use Permits, in accordance with Section 19.168 of the Zoning Ordinance. This review would
ensure that development allocation, architectural and site designs of, as well as the uses located within
future development in the Project Study Area promote and are consistent with the goals, polices and
strategies identified in the General Plan. The review process will consider the vicinity in which each project
is proposed in and will review the intensity of the proposed development.
In addition, future development would also would be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in
the Heart of the City Specific Plan, the Vallco Master Plan, and the Monta Vista Design Guidelines and other
Conceptual Plans as described in Section 4.9.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.9, Land Use and
Planning, of this Draft EIR, and the General Plan policies outlined above, would promote cohesive and
compatible neighborhoods and prevent new development from dividing existing uses where different land
uses abut one another.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
LU-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not conflict with an
applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect.
The City of Cupertino General Plan is the primary planning document for the City of Cupertino. No new
development potential would occur beyond what is already accounted for in the current General Plan and
no changes under the No Project Alternative would result in inconsistency between the General Plan,
Housing Element and Zoning Ordinance, and State law; therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
For a discussion on the No Project Alternative’s consistency with Plan Bay Area as it relates to greenhouse
gas emissions, see Chapter 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, of this Draft EIR.
For a discussion on the No Project Alternative’s consistency with regional housing projections and Plan Bay
Area, see Chapter 4.11, Population and Housing, of this Draft EIR.
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For a discussion on the No Project Alternative’s consistency with the 2002 Cupertino Pedestrian
Transportation Plan, see Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR.
As discussed in Section 4.9.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.9, Land Use and Planning, of this
Draft EIR, there are no airports or private airstrips within or in the immediate proximity to the city,29 and
the city is not located within any protected airspace zones defined by the Airport Land Use Commission
(ALUC)30 and has no heliports listed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA);31 thus, no conflicts with
a Comprehensive Land Use Plan for an airport would occur.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
LU-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to land use and planning.
The geographic context for the cumulative land use and planning effects occur from potential future
development under the General Plan combined with effects of development on lands adjacent to the city
within Los Altos and Sunnyvale to the north, Santa Clara and San Jose to the east, and Saratoga to the south,
and the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County to the west and south, and within the region.
The land use analyses find that the No Project Alternative would not divide an established community or
conflict with established plans, policies and regulations. The No Project Alternative also would not conflict
with any land use plan, policies, or regulations, in or outside the City of Cupertino, adopted for the purpose
of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect. Future development that would be allowed under the
proposed Project would not create substantial land use impacts. Development is likely to continue to occur
in surrounding cities and in the Santa Clara region as well. However, such development is taking place in
already urbanized areas as in-fill development and would not require significant land use changes that would
create land use conflicts, nor would they divide communities. Therefore, the proposed Project would not
result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to cumulative impacts related to land use changes and
impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
29 AirNav, http://www.airnav.com/airports/us/CA, accessed on August 27, 2013.
30 Santa Clara County Airport Land-Use Commission, 2011. Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Santa Clara County, Norman Y. Mineta, San
Jose International Airport.
31 Federal Aviation Administration, 2011. Airport Facilities Data. www.faa.gov/airports/airport_safety/airportdata_5010/, accessed
August 13, 2013.
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5.1.6.10 NOISE
NOISE-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in the
exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards
established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable
standards of other agencies.
Standards for noise generation and exposure in the City of Cupertino are determined primarily through: the
Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines (which would be continued under the noise portion of the
existing Health and Safety Section, maintained as part of the No Project Alternative); Chapter 10.48, Noise
Control, of the Cupertino Municipal Code; as well as by the interior noise standards set by the Title 24 of
the State Building Code. Aside from the guidelines for land use noise compatibility, the City of Cupertino
has adopted noise reception limits for particular uses and times of day, and this regulatory approach would
continue under the proposed Project. Therefore, there are three subsequent criteria, based on applicable
standards and regulations, which may be applied to determine impacts under this significance threshold.
Each of these is analyzed in greater detail below.
Development of new residential or other noise-sensitive land uses such that those new
uses would experience an indoor Ldn exceeding 45 dBA.
Multiple components of the current General Plan under the No Project Alternative would serve to
prevent new residential dwellings, hotels, motels, dormitories, and school classrooms from
experiencing interior noise levels in excess of 45 dBA Ldn. Prevention of excessive interior noise levels
would be achieved both through adherence to the Land Use Noise Compatibility Standards included in
the noise portion of Health and Safety Section of the General Plan, as well as through the performance
of acoustical analysis in noisy areas, which would help determine what, if any, noise attenuating features
are necessary to achieve the 45 dBA Ldn interior noise standard. As individual projects are proposed
under the current General Plan, project proponents would be required to perform site-level acoustic
analysis to demonstrate compliance.
General Plan Policy 2-6, Neighborhood Compatibility, directs the City to “Protect residential
neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments
with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, activity limitations, site design and other
appropriate measures.” Policies 6-64, Building Code Sections on Exterior Noise Intrusion, 6-65,
Building Code Sections on Interior Noise, and 6-66, Application of Policy 6-63 to New Single-family
Homes, contain provisions that require or encourage construction and other techniques to reduce sound
transmission to interior living spaces, consistent with the California Building Code. Additionally
Chapter 10.48, Noise Ordinance, and Title 19, Zoning Ordinance, of the Cupertino Municipal code
contain multiple provisions to limit the generation and reception of excessive noise. Such provisions
include, but are not limited to restrictions on construction activity, strict limitations on noise generation
at property lines, and performance standards for the permitting of commercial and industrial uses.
Under the No Project Alternative, in areas where noise levels exceed those that are deemed normally
acceptable for a particular land use, development projects would continue to be required to
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demonstrate—through project-specific acoustical studies—that interior noise environments would
comply with the 45 dBA Ldn State standard.
Together, these policies and regulations would serve to ensure that land use and development decisions
consider and seek to prevent potential noise impacts. Through implementation of these existing policies
and requirements as part of the current General Plan, the City would ensure compliance with local and
State standards for interior noise, and the impact would be less than significant.
Development of any land use in an area that is characterized by an exterior Ldn which
indicates that the establishment of that land use in the area would be “clearly
unacceptable,” pursuant to the Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines continued
under the current General Plan.
Through adherence to the Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines that would be continued under the
current General Plan under the No Project Alternative, the City of Cupertino would prohibit the
development of particular land uses in areas where the ambient noise level would indicate those land
uses would be clearly unacceptable. General Plan Policy 6-49, Land Use Decision Evaluation, would
continue to ensure that City land use decisions adhere to the established compatibility guidelines.
Through continued implementation of these requirements as part of the No Project Alternative, the
City would ensure compliance with local and State standards for land use compatibility, and the impact
would be less than significant.
Development of a new land use that would result in adjacent properties experiencing
short- or long-term ambient noise levels that exceed those regarded as compatible, or
which exceed levels permitted under the Chapter 10.48 of the Cupertino Municipal
Code.
Under the No Project Alternative, policies of the current General Plan and provisions of the Cupertino
Municipal Code would continue to ensure that new land uses do not contribute to excessive noise at
existing sensitive receptors. Under the current General Plan, the following policies would remain
applicable to future development: Policies 6-58, Commercial Delivery Areas, and 6-59, Delivery Hours,
would continue to ensure that commercial deliveries and delivery areas are regulated to prevent noise
impacts to adjacent sensitive land uses. Policy 6-60, Noise Control Techniques, would similarly serve to
prevent noise impacts from industrial processes and equipment near homes.
Additionally, the maintenance and continued enforcement of the Cupertino Municipal Code, including
the Noise Ordinance and Zoning Code, would work in tandem with and reinforce the policies within
the current General Plan, and any impact arising from violation of applicable local standards would
therefore be less than significant.
Summary
Through adherence to the requirements, policies, and actions continued under the current General Plan and
Cupertino Municipal Code, the City of Cupertino would prevent the development of land uses in areas with
inappropriately high ambient noise levels; would ensure that any development of noise-sensitive land uses
include the study and adequate mitigation of noise impacts; and would prevent activities or new uses that
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
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generate excessive levels of noise at sensitive receptors. Altogether, this would ensure adherence to relevant
noise exposure and generation standards, and would prevent noise-sensitive land uses from being exposed to
noise exceeding the prescribed standards. Therefore the impact under this criterion would therefore be less
than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Building Standards
Title 21, Subchapter 6, of the California Code of Regulations
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19:Zoning Ordinance
Chapter 2.90: Design Review Committee
Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations
Title 10: Public Peace, Safety and Morals
Title 11 Vehicles and Traffic
Title 14: Streets, Sidewalks and Landscaping
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
NOISE-2 Implementation of the No Project Alter native would not expose persons to
or generate excessive ground-borne vibration or ground-borne noise
levels.
CEQA does not specify quantitative thresholds for what is considered “excessive” vibration or groundborne
noise, nor does the City of Cupertino establish such thresholds. For Light Industrial and Industrial Park
zones, the City of Cupertino Municipal Code does specify that “nonaudible” vibrations must not be
perceptible without instrumentation, but the Code does not set a specific numeric threshold. Since
perception of vibrations varies between individuals, it is necessary to establish a quantitative threshold that
reflects levels of vibration typically capable of causing perception, annoyance, or damage. Therefore, based
on criteria from the FTA, which are regarded as standard practice, a significant impact would occur if:
Implementation of the No Project Alternative would result in ongoing exceedance of the criteria for
annoyance presented in Table 4.10-3, in Chapter 4.10, Noise, of this Draft EIR.
Implementation of the No Project Alternative would result in vibration exceeding the criteria presented
in Table 4.10-3, in Chapter 4.10, Noise, of this Draft EIR, that could cause buildings architectural
damage.
The following discusses potential vibration impacts generated by short-term construction and long-term
operations that may occur under implementation of the No Project Alternative.
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Short-Term Construction-Related Vibration Impacts
The effect on buildings in the vicinity of a construction site varies depending on soil type, ground strata, and
receptor-building construction. The results from vibration can range from no perceptible effects at the
lowest vibration levels, to low rumbling sounds and perceptible vibrations at moderate levels, to slight
structural damage at the highest levels. Vibration from construction activities rarely reaches the levels that
can damage structures, but groundborne vibration and groundborne noise can reach perceptible and audible
levels in buildings that are close to the construction site. Table 5.1-7 lists vibration levels for construction
equipment.
As shown in Table 5.1-7, vibration generated by construction equipment has the potential to be substantial.
Significant vibration impacts may occur from construction activities associated with ongoing development
under the No Project Alternative. Implementation of the No Project Alternative anticipates new
development in certain areas, in the absence of information about specific development proposals.
TABLE 5.1‐7 GROUNDBORNE VIBRATION LEVELS FOR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT
Equipment
Approximate Velocity
Level at 25 Feet
(VdB)
Approximate RMSa
Velocity at 25 Feet
(inch/sec)
Pile Driver (Impact) Upper Range 112 1.518
Pile Driver (Impact) Lower Range 104 0.644
Pile Driver (Sonic) Upper Range 105 0.734
Pile Driver (Sonic) Lower Range 93 0.170
Large Bulldozer 87 0.089
Caisson Drilling 87 0.089
Jackhammer 79 0.035
Small Bulldozer 58 0.003
Loaded Trucks 86 0.076
FTA Criteria – Human Annoyance (Daytime) 78 to 90b —
FTA Criteria – Structural Damage — 0.2 to 0.5c
a. RMS velocity calculated from vibration level (VdB) using the reference of 1 micro‐inch/second.
b. Depending on affected land use. For residential 78VdB, for offices 84 VdB, workshops 90 VdB.
c. Depending on affected building structure, for timber and masonry buildings 0.2 in/sec, for reinforced‐concrete, steel, or timber 0.5 in/sec.
Source: Federal Transit Administration, Transit Noise, and Vibration Impact Assessment, 2006.
Construction would be localized and would occur intermittently for varying periods of time. Because
specific, project-level information is not available at this time, it is not possible to quantify the construction
vibration impacts at specific sensitive receptors. Grading and demolition activity typically generate the
highest vibration levels during construction. Except for pile driving, maximum vibration levels measured at
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5.1-104 JUNE 18, 2014
a distance of 25 feet from an individual piece of typical construction equipment do not exceed the
thresholds for human annoyance for industrial uses, nor the thresholds for architectural damage.
Methods to reduce vibration during construction would include the use of smaller equipment, use of well-
maintained equipment, use of static rollers instead of vibratory rollers, and drilling of piles as opposed to
pile driving. Methods to reduce human impacts of vibration from construction include limitations on
construction hours and/or guidelines for the positioning of vibration-generating construction equipment.
Overall, vibration impacts related to construction would be short-term, temporary, and generally restricted
to the areas in the immediate vicinity of active construction equipment. Construction would be localized
and would occur intermittently for varying periods of time. Because specific, project-level information is
not available at this time, it is not possible to quantify the construction vibration impacts at specific sensitive
receptors. These approaches would thereby serve to ensure that construction activities do not result in
sustained levels of vibration that could result in architectural damage or ongoing annoyance. Therefore,
implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in levels of construction-related
groundborne noise or vibration that would exceed the thresholds for annoyance or architectural damage,
and the impact would therefore be less than significant.
Long-Term Vibration Impacts
Development under the No Project Alternative could result in long-term, operations-related vibration
impacts to sensitive receptors if sensitive land uses such as residential, educational facilities, hospitals, or
places of worship were to be located in close proximity to industrial land uses that could have equipment
with the potential to generate significant vibration levels. There are limited areas of Cupertino where
residential or other sensitive land uses would interface to a certain degree with light industrial operations
under the land use designations implemented as part of the No Project Alternative. Some prominent
examples of such areas include the Monta Vista, Bubb Road, and North De Anza Special Areas.
Despite the potential for vibration impacts from the juxtaposition of sensitive land uses and land uses with
the potential to generate vibration, appropriate setbacks, buffers, use restrictions, and/or other measures
can largely eliminate these impacts. As discussed above, vibration impacts are highly dependent on a variety
of localized factors, including geology, soil conditions, and building construction techniques; however, in
most cases vibration attenuates relatively rapidly with distance, making setbacks and buffering particularly
effective approaches to avoid vibration impacts. Moreover, high levels of vibration are usually associated with
heavy industrial uses. The light industrial uses of the sort that would continue to be permitted in Cupertino
under the No Project Alternative are very rarely associated with vibration that is sufficiently intense or
sustained so as to cause human discomfort or architectural/structural damage.
Although there are no State or federal regulations to limit perception of vibration by sensitive receptors, the
No Project Alternative would continue an array of policies that would employ the previously mentioned
strategies to prevent vibration impacts. Policy 2-6, Neighborhood Compatibility, directs the City to “Protect
residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense
developments. with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, activity limitations, site design and
other appropriate measures.” Policy 6-50, Land Use Decision Evaluation, requires the City to “use the Land
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Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments chart and the City Municipal Code to evaluate land
use decisions.” Section 10.48.062, Nighttime Deliveries and Pickups, of the Municipal Code serves to
regulate acceptable freight pickup and delivery times for commercial and industrial land uses. Although
aimed at noise compatibility, these restrictions would also serve to reduce the intensity, frequency, and
duration of potential vibration from such activities, thereby reducing or preventing perception of vibration
at nearby receptors. Additionally, Title 19, Zoning, of the Municipal Code contains general restrictions on
commercial and industrial uses. In the case of industrial uses, it is prohibited to generate vibration that is
perceptible without instruments beyond the boundary of the industrial zone. In the case of commercial uses,
permitting of the use is contingent upon that use not emitting excessive vibration. By ensuring general land
use compatibility and by requiring, where necessary, approaches to reduce the generation or transmission of
vibration, these policies and ordinances would serve to ensure sufficient attenuation of vibration to preclude
impacts at sensitive receptors. Together, these policies would serve to ensure that land use and development
decisions consider and seek to prevent potential vibration impacts.
Together, these policies and actions would ensure that buildout of land uses under the No Project
Alternative would not result in perception of excessive noise and vibration by sensitive receptors in new
developments. These policies and actions would also serve to ensure that new uses developed under the
current General Plan would not result in the perception of excessive vibration by individuals living or
working in areas of existing sensitive land uses. Through consideration of land use compatibility, project-
level review, and requirements for mitigation of noise and vibration, the current General Plan would
prevent or reduce exposure to long-term, operations-related vibration. Therefore implementation of No
Project Alternative would not result in levels of long-term operation-related groundborne noise or vibration
that would exceed the thresholds for annoyance or architectural damage, and the impact would therefore be
less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19:Zoning Ordinance
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
NOISE-3 Implementation of the No Project Alter native would result in a substantial
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the Project vicinity.
Implementation of the No Project Alternative would have a significant impact if it results in a substantial
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above existing levels. The Municipal Code
identifies volume levels and durations that constitute unacceptable noise increases during 2-hour periods;
however, the City of Cupertino has not adopted a specific, quantitative threshold for what constitutes a
significant permanent increase in ambient noise levels. The smallest increase in loudness perceptible by the
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human ear is 3 dBA and increases of 5 dBA or greater are easily noticed.32 However, ongoing
implementation of the General Plan and changes in the ambient noise environment will occur over a period
of more than 20 years. Therefore, in the absence of quantitative ambient noise level increase thresholds
adopted by the City, a substantial increase in ambient noise levels would be defined as either: a 5 dBA
increase, if after the increase the ambient noise level remains in the range of what would be “normally
acceptable” at the land use where the noise is being received; or a 3 dBA increase, if after the increase the
ambient noise level exceeds the range of what would be “normally acceptable” at the land use where the
noise is being received.
Long-Term Operational Noise
A portion of the substantial permanent increases to ambient noise levels that could result from
implementation of the No Project Alternative would be attributable to ongoing operations on land uses
developed under the current General Plan. Residential, open space, and most passive recreational land uses
(i.e. trails, rests areas, picnic areas) are generally not associated with substantial permanent increases in
ambient noise. In the case of these land uses, very specific sources of noise, such as lawn equipment or social
gatherings, would be the most likely source of excessive noise; addressing impacts from these noise sources
would be handled on a complaint basis by Cupertino’s noise ordinance. Noise sources associated with
residential, open space, and passive recreational land uses are generally not sufficiently frequent or sustained
so as to result in permanent substantial increases to ambient noise levels. Instead, substantial permanent
increases in ambient noise levels would be most likely to result from development of commercial, industrial,
mixed-use, and certain institutional or active recreational land uses (i.e. ball fields, skate-parks, dog parks).
The noise portion of the Health and Safety Section of the current General Plan contains multiple policies
that would serve to prevent or mitigate substantial permanent increase to ambient noise levels from long-
term operations. All of the General Plan policies discussed under Impact NOISE-1 and Impact NOISE-2
would likewise serve to prevent substantial permanent increases to ambient noise levels. Key provisions of
these previously discussed policies include, among others: limits on hours of operation, protections for
residential neighborhoods, and project level review to ensure compliance with indoor/outdoor noise
standards for sensitive uses. Together, these policies would serve to ensure that the development of land uses
under the No Project Alternative would not result in substantial permanent increases in the ambient noise
level in the project vicinity, and the impact in this regard would be less than significant.
Transportation-Related Noise
As a result of continued implementation of the current General Plan and ongoing regional growth, it is
anticipated that there would be substantial permanent increases to the ambient noise levels throughout
Cupertino, and that these increases would primarily result from increases to transportation-related noise,
especially that of automobile traffic. Because Cupertino has only one railway with very limited freight
service, does not host any airports or heliports, and is not located within two miles of any airports or
heliports, increases in ambient noise levels from rail and air traffic are not anticipated. Nevertheless,
32 Bies, David and Hansen, Colin, 2009, Engineering Noise Control: Theory and Practice, Fourth Edition, New York: Spon Press.
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increases to ambient noise from car and rail traffic would result in substantial permanent increase in ambient
noise levels.
Development of land uses under ongoing implementation of the current General Plan, as well as
development in adjacent communities, would result in increases in traffic that would cause substantial
permanent increases in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity. Table 5.1-8 shows major roadway
segments in Cupertino with estimated increases in the ambient noise level at a distance of 100 feet from the
roadway centerline.
TABLE 5.1‐8 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
Homestead Rd
From City Boundary to SR 85 65.0 66.2 1.2
From SR 85 to N Stelling Rd 67.8 69.2 1.4
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 69.6 69.9 0.3
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 68.7 70.6 1.9
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 68.9 70.7 1.8
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 69.1 71 1.9
From N Tantau Ave to City Boundary 68.9 70.9 2.0
Pruneridge Ave
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 63.1 64.2 1.1
From N Tantau Ave to Lawrence Expwy 63.6 68.9 5.3
I‐280
From City Boundary to Foothill Blvd 81.2 81.9 0.7
From Foothill Blvd to SR 85 82.2 82.8 0.6
From SR 85 to N Stelling Rd 81.8 82 0.2
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 81.8 82 0.2
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 81.8 82.3 0.5
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 81.8 81.9 0.1
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 81.9 82 0.1
From N Tantau Ave to I‐280 81.9 82 0.1
From I‐280 to Lawrence Expwy 80.2 82.3 2.1
Stevens Creek Blvd
From City Boundary to Foothill Blvd 60.0 61.7 1.7
From Foothill Blvd to Bubb Rd 67.3 68.7 1.4
From Bubb Rd to SR 85 70.1 71.5 1.4
From SR 85 N Stelling Rd 70.4 70.9 0.5
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 69.2 70.8 1.6
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TABLE 5.1‐8 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 68.9 70.9 2.0
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 68.8 71.2 2.4
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 70.6 71.8 1.2
From S Tantau Ave to I‐280 70.9 71.5 0.6
From I‐280 to Lawrence Expwy 70.6 72.3 1.7
McClellan Rd
From Foothill Blvd/Stevens Canyon Rd to Bubb Rd 60.8 63.2 2.4
From Bubb Rd to SR 85 63.3 64.5 1.2
From SR 85 to S Stelling Rd 64.0 65.1 1.1
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 64.6 64.5 ‐0.1
Bollinger Rd
From S De Anza Blvd to S Blaney Ave 67.6 69.6 2.0
From S Blaney Ave to Miller Ave 65.1 67.3 2.2
From Miller Ave to S Tantau Ave 64.4 68.1 3.7
From S Tantau Ave to Lawrence Expwy 68.9 71.1 2.2
Rainbow Dr
From Bubb Rd to S Stelling Rd 58.9 61.7 2.8
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 65.5 65.9 0.4
Prospect Rd From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 65.1 65.9 0.8
Foothill Blvd
From City Boundary to I‐280 71.7 73.2 1.5
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 70.6 69.7 ‐0.9
From McClellan Rd to Stevens Creek Blvd 65.2 66 0.8
Stevens Canyon Rd From City Boundary to McClellan Rd 61.8 63.5 1.7
Bubb Rd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 67.6 68.5 0.9
From Rainbow Dr to McClellan Rd 62.5 63.7 1.2
SR 85
From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 80.8 80.8 0.0
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 80.8 80.7 ‐0.1
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 81.4 81.8 0.4
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From McClellan Rd to S Stelling Rd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From S De Anza Blvd to Prospect Rd 80.5 80.5 0.0
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TABLE 5.1‐8 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
Hollenbeck Ave
(N. Stelling Rd) From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 60.0 60.3 0.3
N Stelling Rd
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 63.2 65.3 2.1
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 63.1 65.3 2.2
S Stelling Rd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 61.7 68.7 7.0
From McClellan Rd to SR 85 59.0 62.8 3.8
From SR 85 to Rainbow Dr 58.8 62 3.2
From Rainbow Dr to Prospect Rd 59.7 61.2 1.5
N De Anza Blvd
From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 73.1 73.6 0.5
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 74.5 74.5 0.0
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 72.9 73.6 0.7
S De Anza Blvd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 71.9 73 1.1
From McClellan Rd to Bollinger Rd 72.0 73.5 1.5
From Bollinger Rd to SR 85 71.7 72.2 0.5
From SR 85 to Rainbow Dr 72.2 73 0.8
From Rainbow Dr to Prospect Rd 72.5 72.6 0.1
N Blaney Ave
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 60.8 63.6 2.8
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 61.0 59.2 ‐1.8
S Blaney Ave
From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 55.7 55.6 ‐0.1
From Bollinger Rd to Prospect Rd 59.1 59.3 0.2
N Wolfe Rd
From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 67.6 70.4 2.8
From Homestead Rd to Pruneridge Ave 69.7 71.2 1.5
From Pruneridge Ave to I‐280 70.2 71.8 1.6
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 68.3 70.6 2.3
Miller Ave
From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 65.5 68.6 3.1
From Bollinger Rd to City Boundary 65.4 66.5 1.1
N Tantau Ave
From Homestead Rd to Pruneridge Ave 47.4 63.5 16.1
From Pruneridge Ave to I‐280 50.3 61 10.7
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 61.2 63 1.8
S Tantau Ave From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 58.7 58.5 ‐0.2
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TABLE 5.1‐8 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
Lawrence Expwy
From Pruneridge Ave to Stevens Creek Blvd 75.4 77.2 1.8
From Stevens Creek Blvd to I‐280 74.9 76.9 2.0
From I‐280 to Bollinger Rd 75.5 77.4 1.9
Bold numbers indicate increases in CNEL which would constitute substantial permanent increase in ambient noise level.
Source: Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Inc., 2014; PlaceWorks, 2014
As discussed above, increases greater than 5.0 dBA would automatically constitute a substantial permanent
increase to the ambient noise level, therefore an increase would be readily noticeable. Increases greater than
3.0 dBA would be considered substantive and permanent if the resulting CNEL would exceed that which is
considered normally acceptable for the receiving land use. The ambient noise level increases shown in Table
5.1-8 and the future 2040 Noise Contours in Figure 5.1-1 demonstrate that there would be multiple major
road segments that would experience substantial permanent increases in ambient noise levels, including at
sensitive receiving land uses.
The General Plan contains numerous policies to address the reception of excessive roadway noise at existing
sensitive land uses, which would be continued under the No Project Alternative. For instance, Policy 6-52,
Stricter State Noise Laws, would direct the City to continue enforcement of existing street laws regarding
vehicle noise, and to support enactment of stricter State standards. Policy 6-54, Traffic Calming Solutions to
Street Noise, directs the City to explore traffic calming approaches for residential streets. Policies 6-55,
Noise Improvement by Restricting Trucks, 6-56, Reduction of Noise from the Hanson Permanente Trucks,
and 6-57, Road Improvements to Reduce Truck Impacts, direct the City to use a combination of restrictions
and street improvements to reduce noise from trucks. Altogether, these policies would serve to reduce noise
from vehicles at the source and to otherwise shield sensitive uses from excessive noise.
Although these policies could in certain cases reduce or prevent significant increases in ambient noise at
sensitive land uses under implementation of the No Project Alternative, the measures described in these
policies would not be universally feasible, and some of the most effective noise-attenuation measures,
including sound walls and berms, would be infeasible or inappropriate in a majority of locations where
sensitive land uses already exist. Factors which would render these mitigations infeasible include but are not
limited to cost, aesthetic considerations, and negative impacts to pedestrian and bicycle connectivity.
Therefore, even after the application of relevant, feasible regulations and General Plan policies, the impact
to ambient noise levels would remain significant.
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NOISECITY OF CUPERTINOGENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING PROJECT
Figure 5.1-12040 Noise Contours – No Project Alternative
Source: City of Cupertino, 2013; MIG, Inc, 2014; PlaceWorks, 2014; ESRI, 2010.
0 0.5 10.25
Miles
60 dBA CNEL contour65 dBA CNEL contour70 dBA CNEL contour
City Boundary
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-112 JUNE 18, 2014
Applicable Regulations
California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19:Zoning Ordinance
Chapter 2.90: Design Review Committee
Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations
Title 10: Public Peace, Safety and Morals
Title 11 Vehicles and Traffic
Title 14: Streets, Sidewalks and Landscaping
Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measures were considered, but as described below, were found to be infeasible.
Technological Advances for Noise-Generating Vehicles and Machinery
Most urban noise results from the use of machinery or vehicles, including manufacturing equipment, HVAC
units, automobiles, motorcycles, trains, and aircraft, among others. The implementation of improved
technologies for the prevention or muffling of noise from these sources could theoretically prevent
substantial increases to ambient noise levels; however, this approach would be infeasible as much of this
implementation is beyond the jurisdiction of the City.
Beyond currently-accepted State and industry standards and best practices, developing and/or requiring
novel technological improvements for noise-generating vehicles and machinery would not be affordable,
scientifically plausible, or within the City’s jurisdiction. Therefore, this potential mitigation measure is
regarded as infeasible.
Universal Use of Noise-Attenuating Features
The universal use of noise attenuating features, such as rubberized asphalt, soundwalls, berms, and
improved building sound-insulation, could prevent transmission of excessive noise to the outdoor and
indoor areas of sensitive land uses and/or could prevent projected increases in ambient noise levels;
however, this approach would be infeasible.
Rubberized asphalt reduces tire-pavement noise and, when new, achieves a reduction of approximately 4
dBA when compared to normal pavement surfaces.33 However, the noise reduction properties degrade over
time, and the noise reduction would not be sufficient to reduce noise impacts in many areas of Cupertino. In
many cases, aesthetic concerns, costs, physical constraints, or other issues would prevent the universal
33 Sacramento County, Department of Environmental Review and Assessment, 1999, Report of the Status of Rubberized Asphalt Traffic Noise
Reduction in Sacramento County.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-113
implementation of adequate noise-attenuating features. In addition to their expense, soundwalls often block
views and are regarded as unsightly. Moreover, the construction of soundwalls can result in reduced
pedestrian and vehicle connectivity, which would contravene other goals of the General Plan and have
negative social, economic, and even environmental consequences. Although improved building construction
and insulation beyond that which is required by California Title 24 and the current General Plan could
further reduce indoor exposure to excessive noise, substantial outdoor increases to ambient noise levels
would remain. Therefore, this potential mitigation measure is regarded as infeasible.
For this noise impact, there is no feasible mitigation for preventing substantial increases in ambient noise
levels, since all conceivable mitigations would be economically impractical, scientifically unachievable,
outside the City’s jurisdiction, and/or inconsistent with City planning goals and objectives. Impacts would
remain significant and unavoidable because no feasible mitigation measures are available to mitigate noise
impacts to a less than significant level, resulting in a significant and unavoidable impact.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and Unavoidable.
NOISE-4 Implementation of the No Project Alter native would result in a substantial
temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the Project
vicinity.
Ongoing implementation of the current General Plan would have a significant impact if it results in a
substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above existing
levels.
Noise from construction equipment and various construction-related activities is frequently a cause of
temporary or periodic increases in ambient noise levels. Table 5.1-9, below, shows typical noise levels
generated by commonly-used pieces of construction equipment. Although the policies and actions of the
General Plan Amendment and the provisions of the noise ordinance would serve to prevent or reduce noise
generation from construction equipment, it is likely that in certain cases these and other available methods
to reduce noise would be inadequate to prevent a significant impact.
By restricting hours of construction (with limited exceptions for urgent or emergency maintenance work)
and directing the City to review project noise impacts as part of the planning and permitting processes, the
policies of the current General Plan would serve to reduce temporary or periodic increases to ambient
noise. The Noise Portion of the Health and Safety Section of the General Plan directs the City to consider
project-level noise impacts as part of the environmental evaluation and approval process for individual
development proposals. Specifically, Policies 6-61, Hours of Construction, and 6-62, Construction and
Maintenance Activities, of the General Plan, respectively, direct the City to limit the hours for construction
activities and to regulate construction and maintenance activities, such as through requirements for up-to-
date construction equipment. Through continued implementation of these policies, the current General
Plan would serve to minimize temporary or periodic impacts to ambient noise levels from construction
activities.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-114 JUNE 18, 2014
TABLE 5.1‐9 CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NOISE EMISSION LEVELS
Construction
Equipment
Typical Noise Level (dBA)
at 50 Feet
Construction
Equipment
Typical Noise Level (dBA)
at 50 Feet
Air Compressor 81 Pile‐Driver (Impact) 101
Backhoe 80 Pile‐Driver (Sonic) 96
Ballast Equalizer 82 Pneumatic Tool 85
Ballast Tamper 83 Pump 76
Compactor 82 Rail Saw 90
Concrete Mixer 85 Rock Drill 98
Concrete Pump 71 Roller 74
Concrete Vibrator 76 Saw 76
Crane, Derrick 88 Scarifier 83
Crane, Mobile 83 Scraper 89
Dozer 85 Shovel 82
Generator 81 Spike Driver 77
Grader 85 Tie Cutter 84
Impact Wrench 85 Tie Handler 80
Jack Hammer 88 Tie Inserter 85
Loader 85 Truck 88
Paver 89
Source: Federal Transit Administration, Transit Noise, and Vibration Impact Assessment, 2006.
Section 10.48.053, Grading, Construction, and Demolition, of the Cupertino Municipal Code, also serves
to regulate noise from construction and related activities in Cupertino. Subsection A places an 87 dBA limit
on noise levels from construction equipment at a distance of 25 feet, as well as an 80 dBA limit on noise
levels at nearby properties. Additionally, Subsections C and D limit construction activities to weekdays, non-
holidays, and daytime hours, with limited exceptions. The noise chapter thus limits construction activities to
7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays, and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends. However, the ordinance
allows exceptions under Sections 10.48.030 and 10.48.031, which allow construction outside of these
hours, under certain conditions. However, these are used in very special circumstances such as emergencies
or when are unavoidable as a result of necessary construction techniques. Subsection E places additional
restrictions on the use of helicopters for construction purposes, including noticing requirements.
Although it is possible that certain construction activities may in some cases, lead to substantial temporary
or periodic increases to ambient noise levels, the current and proposed policies and regulations included
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-115
under the proposed Project and the Municipal Code would serve to reduce these impacts. With appropriate
noise reduction and shielding measures, temporary or periodic increases to the ambient noise level that
could be substantially reduced. The policies of the General Plan and regulations of the Municipal Code,
would thereby reduce the impacts from temporary or periodic increases to ambient noise levels, and the
impact would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19:Zoning Ordinance
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
NOISE-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to noise.
The analysis of the No Project Alternative, discussed above, addresses cumulative impacts in regard to noise,
as well as groundborne noise and vibration. Although multiple simultaneous nearby noise sources may, in
combination, result in higher overall noise levels, this effect is captured and accounted for by the ambient
noise level metrics which form the basis of the Thresholds of Significance for noise analysis. Any
measurement of sound or ambient noise, whether for the purpose of evaluating land use compatibility,
establishing compliance with exterior and interior noise standards, or determining point-source violations
of a noise ordinance, necessarily will incorporate noise from all other nearby perceptible sources.
Additionally, although noise attenuation is influenced by a variety of topographical, meteorological, and
other factors, noise levels decrease relatively rapidly with distance, and vibration impacts decrease even
more rapidly. Therefore, site-level cumulative noise or vibration impacts across city boundaries occur only
infrequently. The City of Cupertino shares borders with other incorporated communities and similarly
urbanized areas, which makes cross-border cumulative noise and vibration impacts possible. Nevertheless,
given the General Plan policies and Municipal Code requirements discussed above, it is unlikely that
operations-related noise would, in combination with noise sources from adjacent cities, result in cumulative
noise impacts. Additionally, because any noise measurements taken in conjunction with General Plan
policies or Municipal Code requirements would necessarily account for noises received from outside the
boundaries of the City of Cupertino, the ongoing implementation of these policies and regulations under the
No Project Alternative would serve to prevent site-based cumulative noise impacts.
Similarly, the noise contours and traffic-related noise levels developed for the No Project Alternative include
and account for regional travel patterns as they affect traffic levels in Cupertino. Noise contours were based
upon both existing and projected future traffic volumes that incorporate cumulative regional effects and
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-116 JUNE 18, 2014
trends. Existing noise contours were derived from traffic volumes based on counts of current traffic, and
these traffic counts inherently include cumulative traffic, as generated by regional trips. In regard to future
noise, projected noise contours were determined using projected 2040 traffic volumes; these data account
for growth both within Cupertino under the No Project Alternative, as well as anticipated regional growth.
The future noise modeling which served as the foundation for the overall analysis was therefore based on
future, cumulative conditions. Impacts NOISE-3 and NOISE-4 therefore encompasses and addresses
cumulative noise impacts from implementation of the No Project Alternative. As discussed above, even after
the application of pertinent policies and action of the General Plan, as well as all mitigation measures
considered but determined to be infeasible described above under Impact NOISE-3, impacts would remain
significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
5.1.6.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING
POP-1 Implementation of the proposed Project would not induce substantial
population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing
new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension
of roads or other infrastructure).
The No Project Alternative would result in a significant impact related to population growth if it would lead
to substantial unplanned growth, either directly or indirectly. The No Project Alternative does not
specifically propose any new development or redevelopment, and therefore would not result in direct
growth; however, implementation of the No Project Alternative would facilitate growth in the Project Study
Area, and therefore would have indirect effects related to growth. Potential impacts stemming from the
indirect inducement of unplanned population growth are discussed below in relation to both local and
regional planning efforts.
Local Planning
The developable area of Cupertino is already largely built out and the Project Study Area is well served by
utility and transportation infrastructure. Future housing development and redevelopment under this
alternative would be infill development and would be concentrated on sites previously developed. The
General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would serve to accommodate future
growth through 2040. Within the Land Use and Community Design Element, Policy 2-1, Focus
Development in Mixed-Use Special Areas, requires the City to, in the mixed-use Special Areas where office,
commercial and residential uses are allowed, focus higher intensity development and increased building
heights where appropriate in designated corridors, gateways and nodes. Policy 2-15, Multi-Family
Residential Design, requires the City to maintain a superior living environment for multi-family dwellings.
Strategy 1, Relationship to Street, directs the City to relate building entrances to the street, utilizing
porches or stoops. Strategy 2, Provision of Outdoor Areas, requires the City to provide outdoor areas, both
passive and active, and generous landscaping to enhance the surroundings for multi-family residents. Allow
public access to the common outdoor areas whenever possible. Policy 2-19, Jobs/Housing Balance, requires
the City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Strategy 1, Housing and Mixed-Use,
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-117
calls for the City to strive to achieve a balanced jobs/housing ratio based on the policies and strategies
contained in the Housing Element. Strategy 2, Housing Impact on Local Schools, recognizes that since the
quality of Cupertino schools (elementary and high school) is a primary asset of the City, care shall be taken
to ensure any new housing will not adversely impact these systems.
Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy 5-48, New Development Public Infrastructure
Requirements, calls for the City to require new development to provide adequate public facilities or pay its
fair share of the cost for public facilities needed to provide services to accommodate growth without
adversely impacting current service levels. Strategy 1, Design Capacity, requires the City to ensure that
public facilities and infrastructure are designed and constructed to meet ultimate capacity needs to avoid the
need for future upsizing. For facilities subject to incremental upsizing, initial design shall include adequate
land area and any other elements not easily expanded in the future. Infrastructure and facility planning
should discourage over-sizing of infrastructure which could contribute to growth beyond what was
anticipated in the General Plan. Strategy 2, Utility Undergrounding, calls for the City to require
undergrounding of all new publicly owned utility lines. Encourage undergrounding of all privately owned
utility lines in new developments. Work with electricity and telecommunications providers to underground
existing overhead lines. Policy 5-2 would require the City to “coordinate with regional and local agencies to
prepare updates to regional growth plans and strategies.” Strategy 1 under this policy would direct the City
to maintain local plans and strategies that are consistent with regional transportation and housing plans.
Policy 5-47, Sewer Tributary Lines, requires the City to recognize that new high discharge users in the
Vallco, Stevens Creek Boulevard and Blaney Avenue areas will require private developers to pay for the
upgrading of tributary lines. Strategy 1, Cost Estimates, calls for the City to develop preliminary cost
estimates for the upgrading of the sewer tributary lines to discuss with prospective developers.
The City currently has the capacity to accommodate 1,895 housing units. Implementation of these General
Plan policies would ensure that local planning is adequate to accommodate future growth in Cupertino.
Regional Planning
ABAG and Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) have responsibility for regional planning in the
nine county Bay Area, which includes Cupertino. ABAG and MTC have developed regional growth forecasts
for the Bay Area as a whole and for constituent jurisdictions. Future development under the No Project
Alternative would be considered to induce substantial growth if the estimated buildout resulting from future
development permitted under the current General Plan would exceed these regional growth projections for
Cupertino. The No Project 2040 buildout estimates are shown in Table 5.1-1.
Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in the replenishment of development
allocation; therefore, future development would continue to occur and function under the remaining
development allocation, similar to existing conditions. Given the ABAG projections currently account for
the growth in Cupertino as it planned for in the current General Plan, implementation of the No Project
Alternative would not induce substantial unexpected population growth or growth for which inadequate
planning has occurred, either directly or indirectly and no impact would occur.
Additionally, growth under this alternative would come incrementally over a period of approximately 26
years and would be guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of the principal
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-118 JUNE 18, 2014
goals and objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area. One of the key concepts of
the Plan Bay Area is the idea of focusing future growth into transit-oriented, infill development opportunity
areas within existing communities that are expected to host the majority of future development.
Significance Without Mitigation: No impact.
POP-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not displace
substantial numbers of existing housing units, necessitating the
construction of replacement housing elsewhere.
Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not include General Plan land use designation, Zoning
designation and development standard changes; therefore, future development would continue to occur and
function similar to existing conditions. Under this alternative, development allocations would not be
replenished; however, the city has a remaining residential unit allocation of 1,895, which would provide
additional housing units. Further, future development would primarily be concentrated on sites that have
previously been developed, and therefore, would not displace substantial numbers of existing housing units.
Additionally, because this alternative would continue to develop and function similar to existing conditions,
the General Plan land use designation, Zoning designation and development standards on the Housing
Element Sites would not result in the displacement of housing necessitating the construction of replacement
housing elsewhere.
Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in an increase to residential development
allocation; therefore, under this Alternative, the maximum number of residential units that could be built
would remain at 1,895. Therefore, construction of replacement housing elsewhere would not be necessary
and the impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
POP-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not displace
substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere.
Under this alternative, there would be no replenishment of development allocations, including residential.
Therefore, future development under this alternative would occur and function similar to existing
conditions, and no land use designations, or development standards would be changed. Therefore, future
development under the No Project Alternative would occur as permitted under the current remaining
development allocations. Because no land use designations, development standards, and Zoning designations
would be changed, implementation of this alternative would not displace substantial numbers of people,
necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere.
However, as development occurs, Section 19.116.030, General Regulations, of the Municipal Code, would
ensure that a relocation/displacement plan is prepared, which would illustrate that sufficient replacement
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-119
housing is available at a similar price range in the same general area. Therefore, not only is the No Project
Alternative anticipated to result in up to 1,895 residential units, but also, should some types of individual
development projects be permitted under the No Project Alternative that would potentially displace people,
provisions of the Cupertino Municipal Code would serve to minimize impacts. Therefore, the construction
of replacement housing elsewhere would not be warranted and the impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
POP-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to population and housing.
Impacts from cumulative growth are considered in the context of their consistency with regional planning
efforts. As described above, the No Project Alternative would not induce a substantial amount of growth or
require the construction of replacement housing elsewhere. Cumulative growth would be consistent with
regional planning efforts. Thus, when considered along with the No Project Alternative, which, as described
in the above sections, would not exceed regional growth projections, cumulative growth would not displace
substantial numbers of people or housing or exceed planned levels of growth and cumulative impacts, would
be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.1.6.12 PUBLIC SERVICES AND RECREATION
Fire Protection Services
PS-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in the
provision of or need for new or physically altered fire protection facilities,
the construction or operation of which could cause significant
environmental impacts.
The No Project Alternative would facilitate new development under the current General Plan, including
residential, mixed-use, and commercial, within Cupertino, which could result in the provision of or need
for new or physically altered fire protection facilities, the construction or operation of which could cause a
significant environmental impact.
Future development permitted under the current General Plan would likely result in an in increase in the
number of calls for fire protection, and emergency medical services, which could result in expansion or
construction of new or physically altered fire protection facilities, of which could result in significant
environmental impacts; however, development allocation under this alternative would not be replenished,
and is largely depleted, therefore, resulting in limited office, commercial, hotel, and residential
development throughout the 26-year horizon.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-120 JUNE 18, 2014
Additionally, compliance with Subsections 105.1.4, Construction permit fees, and 105.1.5, Operational
permit fees, under Section 16.40.065, Permits, of the Municipal Code, as described in Section 4.12.1.1,
Environmental Setting, Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, in this Draft EIR, would require
future development to undergo plan review and approval by the Santa Clara County Fire District (SCCFD)
to ensure that future projects comply with State, and local fire codes, as well as ensure adequate safety
features are incorporated into building design to minimize risk of fire. Further, the General Plan includes
policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate fire protection services are available for
the residents of Cupertino. Within the Health/Safety Element, Policy 6-3, Wild Fire Prevention Efforts,
requires the City to coordinate wild fire prevention efforts with adjacent jurisdictions. Policy 6-7, Early
Project Review, requires the City to involve the Fire Department in the early design stage of all projects
requiring public review to assure Fire Department input and modifications as needed. Policy 6-8,
Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection Guidelines, requires the City to coordinate with the Fire
Department to develop new guidelines for fire protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-
10, Multi-Story Buildings Fire Risks, requires the City to recognize that multi-story buildings of any land
use type increase risks of fire, to ensure that adequate fire protection is built into the design, and require on-
site fire suppression materials and equipment to ensure the safety of the community. Policy 6-12, Smoke
Detectors, requires the City to require smoke detectors in all new residential units and in all residential
units at the time of sale or rental, in conformance with State law, and to continue to use the Cupertino
Scene to publicize fire hazards correction methods. Policy 6-14, Roadway Design, requires the City to
involve the Fire Department in the design and review of public roadways for review and comments, and to
attempt to ensure that roadways have frequent median breaks for timely access to properties. Policy 6-16,
Hillside Access Routes, requires the City to require new hillside development to have frequent grade breaks
in access routes to ensure a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-17, Hillside Road Upgrades,
requires the City to require new hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire Code
and City standards. Policy 6-20, Growth Cooperation, requires the City to encourage cooperation between
water utility companies and the Fire Department in order to keep water systems in pace with growth and
firefighting service needs. Policy 6-21, Fire Fighting Upgrades Needs, requires the City to encourage
utilities to consider Fire Department firefighting needs when upgrading water systems. Policy 6-22,
Residential Fire Sprinklers, requires the City to require fire sprinklers in new residential construction
located in hillside areas and flag lots.
Future development would also be required to comply with the City’s Fire Code per Chapter 16.40 (Fire
Code), including compliance with the permit processes, emergency access, hazardous material handling,
and fire protection systems, including automatic sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, and fire alarms.
Further, future development would be required to comply with the City adopted the 2010 California Fire
Code (CFC) and 2009 International Fire Code. Consequently, compliance with the State and local
regulations, in conjunction with compliance with the above listed General Plan policies, would ensure that
potential impacts under the No Project Alternative remain less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-121
PS-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to fire protection service.
The No Project Alternative would facilitate new development under the current General Plan, including
residential, mixed-use, and commercial, within Cupertino, which could result in the provision of or need
for new or physically altered fire protection facilities, the construction or operation of which could cause a
significant environmental impact, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa
Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecasted by the ABAG. Cumulative impacts are considered in
the context of the growth from development under this alternative within the city combined with the
estimated growth in the service area of the SCCFD, which includes the cities of Campbell, Los Altos, Monte
Sereno, Saratoga, and towns of Los Altos Hills and Los Gatos. A significant cumulative environmental impact
would result if this cumulative growth would exceed the ability of SCCFD to adequately serve their service
area, thereby requiring construction of new facilities or modification of existing facilities.
The No Project Alternative is unlikely to create a need for new or physically altered facilities in order for the
SCCFD to provide fire protection services to its service area, as a result of limited remaining development
allocation. Compliance with State and local laws, as described in Section 4.12.1.1, Environmental Setting,
in Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, of this Draft EIR, as well as the General Plan policies listed
in Impact PS-1, would ensure that fire protection services are adequate as future development is proposed as
a result of implementation of the current General Plan. Therefore, the cumulative impact on the provision
of fire services would likewise be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Police Protection Services
PS-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in the
provision of or need for new or physically altered police protection
facilities, the construction or operation of which could cause significant
environmental impacts.
The No Project Alternative still would facilitate new development under the current General Plan,
including residential, mixed-use, and commercial, within Cupertino, which could result in the provision of
or need for new or physically altered police protection facilities, the construction or operation of which
could cause a significant environmental impact.
These changes would likely result in the number of calls for police protection services, which could result in
the expansion or construction of new or physically altered police protection facilities, of which could result
in significant environmental impacts. However, development allocation under the current General Plan is
largely depleted, therefore, resulting in limited office, commercial, hotel, and residential development
through the 26-year horizon.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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Additionally, if future expansion of the police station were necessary, the project would be subject to the
provisions of CEQA, which would require that all potentially significant impacts be mitigated to a less-than-
significant level, when feasible.
The General Plan includes Policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate police
protection services are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Health/Safety Element, Policy 6-
23, Neighborhood Awareness Programs, requires the City to support the Neighborhood Watch Program and
others intended to help neighborhoods prevent crime through social interaction. Policy 6-25, Crime
Prevention in Building Design, requires the City to consider the relationship between building design and
crime prevention in reviewing all developments. Policy 6-26, Fiscal Impacts, requires the City to recognize
fiscal impacts to the County Sheriff and City of Cupertino when approving various land use mixes. Policy 6-
27, Pre-hearing Review, requires the City to continue to request County Sheriff review and comment on
development applications for security measures.
Therefore, compliance with the General Plan policies listed above would ensure that a less-than-
significant impact would occur with respect to the need for new or physically altered police protection
facilities.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to police protection service.
Cumulative impacts are considered in the context of the growth from development under the current
General Plan within the city combined with the estimated growth in the service areas of the Santa Clara
County Sheriff’s Department, including the cities of Los Altos Hills, Saratoga, and unincorporated areas of
Santa Clara County. A significant cumulative environmental impact would result if this cumulative growth
would exceed the ability of Sheriff’s Department to adequately serve the vicinity, thereby requiring
construction of new facilities or modification of existing facilities.
Since police protection services in Cupertino are provided through a Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU) between the City of Cupertino and the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, changes and growth
anticipated under the No Project Alternative would not have any cumulative impact beyond Cupertino’s
SOI. Further, it is unlikely that implementation of this alternative would significantly increase the degree or
incidence of need for mutual aid from neighboring agencies because anticipated growth under the No
Project Alternative is limited as a result of limited development allocation remaining. Additionally,
compliance with the General Plan policies listed above in impact discussion PS-3 would require the City to
recognize fiscal impacts to the County Sheriff and City of Cupertino when approving various land use mixes
and to continue to request County Sheriff review and comment on development applications for security
and public safety measures. Therefore, the No Project Alternative would have a less-than-significant
cumulative effect with respect to police protection services.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-123
School Services
PS-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would/would not result in
the provision of or need for new or physically altered school facilities, the
construction or operation of which could cause significant environmental
impacts.
Under the No Project Alternative, no new development potential would occur beyond what has already
been accounted for under the current General Plan and Housing Element. Therefore, the buildout of the
City is currently accounted for in the facility planning efforts of the Cupertino Union High School District,
Freemont Unified High School District, and the Santa Clara Unified High School District.
Furthermore, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would preserve and
support Cupertino’s excellent public education system by partnering with local school districts and De Anza
College to improve school facilities and infrastructure. Policy 2-22, Neighborhood Street Planning, requires
the City to develop pedestrian-friendly street environments in each neighborhood that help create
neighborhood identity, improve safety, increase opportunities for social interaction and connections to
shopping, schools, recreation and other destinations. Supporting Strategy 2, Public Facilities, requires the
City to evaluate existing and planned public facilities, such as schools and parks, to improve pedestrian
access. Strategy 2, Public Facilities, requires the City to evaluate existing and planned public facilities, such
as schools and parks, to improve pedestrian access. Policy 2-19, Jobs/Housing Balance, requires the City to
strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Supporting Strategy 1, Housing and Mixed-Use,
requires the City to strive to achieve a balanced jobs/housing ratio based on the policies and strategies
contained in the Housing Element. Strategy 2, Housing Impact on Local Schools, recognizes that the quality
of Cupertino schools (elementary and high school) is a primary asset of the City and directs the City to
ensure that any new housing pays the statutorily mandated impact fees to mitigate any adverse impact to
these systems. Policy 2-55, Planning for Schools, requires the City to recognize the financial impact of
increased development on the school districts’ ability to provide staff and facilities. Work with the districts
to assure that the continued excellence of school services can be provided prior to granting approval for
new development. Policy 2-84, School Playing Fields, requires the City to preserve school playing fields for
school and community recreational uses. Strategy 1, School Expansion, requires the City to encourage
schools to meet their expansion needs by building upward instead of outward into recreation fields. Strategy
2, School Parking Lots, requires the City to encourage schools to seek alternate parking or transportation
solutions, rather than building new parking lots that infringe on playing fields.
Therefore, given the mandatory payment of developer impact fees pursuant to SB 50 together with
implementation of the General Plan policies and strategies that support the schools within Cupertino and
that no new development potential would occur under this alternative, impacts to the CUSD, FUHSD and
SCUSD would be less than significant.
Significance With/Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
5.1-124 JUNE 18, 2014
PS-6 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would/would not result in
less than significant cumulative impacts with respect to schools.
Regional growth resulting from past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects would result in increased
demand for additional school facilities within all three school districts serving the City of Cupertino. Similar
to development in Cupertino, the schools are expected to receive development impact fees from other
development outside of Cupertino, which would mitigate the current and future capacity issues, which
would help expand their facilities to accommodate future students. Therefore, the proposed Project would
have a less-than-significant impact on school facilities.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Libraries
PS-7 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in the
provision of or need for new or physically altered library facilities, the
construction or operation of which could cause significant environmental
impacts.
The No Project Alternative still would facilitate new development, including residential, mixed-use, and
commercial, within Cupertino, which could result in an increase to residents and employees as a result of
future development allowed under the remaining development allocation. Although the No Project
Alternative would result in an increase in employees throughout Cupertino, only residents within Santa
Clara County can apply for a library card; therefore, the following analysis considers expected population
increases, and not employment generation as a result of continued implementation of this alternative.34
Therefore, expected increases in employees in the city need not be further considered.
While an overall increase in residents is expected, growth under the No Project Alternative would occur
incrementally throughout the 26-year horizon; therefore, potential impacts resulting from increased
demand for library services would not occur in the immediate future. It was confirmed that the existing 75
employees, as well as existing library facilities, would be sufficient to accommodate increased demand for
library services, and no expansions would be required for the proposed Project; therefore, there would be
adequate capacity at the library for the No Project Alternative.35 Additionally, the General Plan includes
policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate library services are available for the
residents of Cupertino. Policy 2-59, Library Service Level, requires the City to recognize that if the
community desires a higher level of library service, cooperation between the County of Santa Clara and City
of Cupertino in expanding library services and facilities is required. Policy 2-60, Library Planning, requires
34 Santa Clara County Library District, Santa Clara County Library District website, http://www.sccl.org/about/joining/eligibility,
accessed April 8, 2014.
35 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Derek Wolfgram, Deputy County Librarian for Community
Libraries, April 4, 2014.
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-125
the City to integrate and coordinate any library facility planning into all applicable General Plan policies,
such as transportation, pedestrian and bike trails. Policy 2-61, Improving Library Service, requires the City
to encourage the library to continue to incorporate new technology to enhance service levels within the
library system, and to encourage the continued evolution of library collections and services to meet the
needs of Cupertino residents of all ages, its richly diverse population, and its local businesses.
Moreover, the Santa Clara County Library Strategic Plan (2008) also aims to ensure adequate library
facilities are provided to sufficiently meet the demands of the City through the identification of goals and
objectives, such as increasing the library’s technology and increasing access to the library’s physical space.
Therefore, although development allocations would not be replenished under this alternative, future
development occurring under the existing remaining development allocations would be required to comply
with the General Plan policies, which would ensure impacts to library facilities remain less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-8 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to libraries.
Cumulative impacts are considered in the context of the growth from development under the No Project
Alternative within the city combined with the estimated growth in the service areas of the Santa Clara
County Library District (SCCLD), which includes all unincorporated portions of Santa Clara County in
addition to the incorporated portions of Campbell, Cupertino, Gilroy, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Milpitas,
Monte Sereno, Morgan Hill, and Saratoga.36 A significant cumulative environmental impact would result if
this cumulative growth would exceed the ability of SCCLD to adequately serve their service area, thereby
requiring construction of new facilities or modification of existing facilities.
Implementation of the No Project Alternative could result in an increase to population as a result of future
development allowed under the remaining development allocation; however, the Santa Clara County Library
Strategic Plan (2008), described in more detail in Section 4.12.5.1, Environmental Setting, of Chapter
4.12, Public Services and Recreation, of this Draft EIR, accounts for the entire SCCLD service area and
provides a basis for analyzing the most efficient allocation of funds both for the district as a whole as well as
among the different libraries in the SCCLD service area. This would not only allow for adequate funding to
satisfy demand at the Cupertino library, but also, it would ensure that surrounding libraries are adequate to
fulfill demand which in turn would reduce the demand at the Cupertino library by reducing deficiencies at
surrounding facilities. As a result, the No Project Alternative would result in a less-than-significant
cumulative impact associated with libraries.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
36 Santa Clara Library District, Santa Clara Library District website, http://www.sccl.org/about/joining/eligibility, accessed April 8,
2014.
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Parks and Recreation
PS-9 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not increase the use of
existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities,
such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur, or
be accelerated.
The City is not currently meeting its adopted standard of parkland per 1,000 residents. An increase to
population would occur as implementation of the No Project Alternative would still allow for development;
however, development allocations under this alternative would not be replenished and would be required to
comply with Municipal Code Chapter 14.05, Park Maintenance Fee, described in Section 4.12.5.1,
Environmental Setting, of Chapter 4.12, Public Services, which requires developers to pay impact fees to
mitigate potential impacts to and existing parklands and recreation facilities. Fees collected under Chapter
14.05 could be applied to acquisition, improvement, maintenance, rehabilitation, or expansion of existing
parkland or recreation facilities. Therefore, while the population increase as a result implementation of this
alternative could still result in an increase to demand for parks and recreational facilities, compliance with
the provisions of Chapter 14.05, would serve to minimize impacts to existing parklands and recreation
facilities. Therefore, it is not anticipated that a substantial deterioration of facilities would occur as a result of
the No Project Alternative impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-10 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not include or require
the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have
an adverse physical effect on the environment.
As discussed above in Impact PS-9, the City is not currently meeting its adopted standard of parkland per
1,000 residents. An increase to population would occur as result of continued implementation of the No
Project Alternative; however, because development allocation would not be replenished under this
alternative, the potential increase in population and demand for parks and recreation services would be
limited. Additionally, future development under this alternative would be subject to project-level
environmental review to identify potential impacts and mitigation measure to ensure that potential impacts
would be reduced to a less-than-significant level with regards to the future construction or expansion of
recreational facilities as a result of the No Project Alternative. Further, compliance with the General Plan
policies listed above in impact discussion PS-9, as well as compliance with the regulations as described in
Section 4.12.5.1, Environmental Setting, of Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, of this Draft
EIR, would ensure potential impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-127
PS-11 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to parks and recreational
facilities.
The geographic scope for this discussion includes park and recreation facilities within the city boundary, as
well as Santa Clara County, and the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. As described above, the
City would require subdivision development to fund park improvements and dedicate land through
compliance with Municipal Code Chapter 14.05 and Title 18, which would help to ensure the provision of
adequate parklands in compliance with the City standard of providing three acres per 1,000 residents.
The No Project Alternative would still allow for development to occur under the current General Plan,
which would cumulatively increase the demand for park and recreational services in the city; however,
compliance with the City’s Municipal Code, along with the policies listed above in impact discussion PS-9,
would ensure that adequate parklands and recreational facilities are provided through in-lieu fees,
maintenance fees, or parkland dedication in order to meet the City standards, which would mitigate
potential impacts that future development would have on park and recreation services in the city.
Further, potential future impacts to Santa Clara Parks, as well as the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District, would be mitigated through the contribution of property taxes to ensure facilities at these locations
are adequately maintained and sufficient to accommodate growth associated with continued implementation
of the current General Plan under this alternative.
Overall, the No Project Alternative would not contribute to any potential cumulative impacts to park and
cumulative impacts to park and recreational services would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.1.6.13 TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC
TRAF-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would conflict with an
applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness
for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all
modes of transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel
and relevant components of the circulation system, including but not
limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and
bicycle paths, and mass transit.
Intersection Operations
The results of the level of service analysis under 2040 No Project conditions are summarized in Table
5.1-10. The results show that, measured against the various signalized intersection level-of-service standards
described in Section 4.13.3, Methodology and Level of Service Standards, of Chapter 4.13, Transportation
and Traffic, of the Draft EIR, 34 of the 41 study intersections would continue to operate at acceptable levels
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5.1-128 JUNE 18, 2014
of service during the AM and PM peak hours under the 2040 No Project scenario. The level-of-service
calculation sheets are included in Appendix G, Transportation and Traffic Data, of this Draft EIR.
TABLE 5.1‐10 2040 NO PROJECT AM AND PM PEAK HOUR LEVEL OF SERVICE RESULTS
Study
Intersection Intersection
LOS
Standard
Peak
Hour
Average
Delay
No Project
LOS
1 SR 85 SB Ramps and Stevens Creek Boulevarda D
AM 29.2 C
PM 29.1 C
2 SR 85 NB Ramps and Stevens Creek Boulevarda D
AM 51.1 D‐
PM 20.9 C+
3 Stelling Road and Stevens Creek Boulevarda E+
AM 46.2 D
PM 52.9 D‐
4 Sunnyvale‐Saratoga Road and Fremont Avenueb E
AM 42.8 D
PM 52.5 D‐
5 Sunnyvale‐Saratoga Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead
Roada D
AM 51.2 D‐
PM 66.1 E
6 De Anza Boulevard and I‐280 NB Rampa D
AM 46.4 D
PM 71.7 E
7 De Anza Boulevard and I‐280 SB Rampa D
AM 47.0 D
PM 35.3 D+
8 De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevarda E+
AM 45.8 D
PM 76.2 E‐
9 De Anza Boulevard and McClellan Road/Pacifica Drive D
AM 33.0 C‐
PM 70.7 E
10 De Anza Boulevard and Bollinger Roada E+
AM 44.0 D
PM 25.1 C
11 De Anza Boulevard and SR 85 NB Rampa D
AM 32.9 C‐
PM 16.4 B
12 De Anza Boulevard and SR 85 SB Rampa D
AM 23.9 C
PM 22.2 C+
13 Blaney Avenue and Homestead Road D
AM 34.9 C‐
PM 16.4 B
14 Wolfe Road and El Camino Real (SR 82)b E
AM 47.6 D
PM 51.8 D‐
15 Wolfe Road and Fremont Avenuec E
AM 45.8 D
PM 51.8 D‐
16 Wolfe Road and Homestead Road D
AM 36.3 D+
PM 51.9 D‐
17 Wolfe Road and Pruneridge Avenue D
AM 17.0 B
PM 26.9 C
18 Wolfe Road and I‐280 NB Rampa D
AM 88.3 F
PM 36.5 D+
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
PLACEWORKS 5.1-129
TABLE 5.1‐10 2040 NO PROJECT AM AND PM PEAK HOUR LEVEL OF SERVICE RESULTS
Study
Intersection Intersection
LOS
Standard
Peak
Hour
Average
Delay
No Project
LOS
19 Wolfe Road and I‐280 SB Rampa D
AM 38.9 D+
PM 24.7 C
20 Wolfe Road and Vallco Pkwy D
AM 26.4 C
PM 51.2 D‐
21 Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue & Stevens Creek Boulevarda D
AM 46.5 D
PM 72.2 E
22 Miller Avenue and Bollinger Road g D
AM 42.0 D
PM 44.2 D
23 Finch Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard D
AM 26.6 C
PM 41.8 D
24 North Tantau Avenue/Quail Avenue and Homestead Road D
AM 49.6 D
PM 43.6 D
25 North Tantau Avenue and Pruneridge Avenue D
AM 29.2 C
PM 16.6 B
26 North Tantau Avenue and Vallco Pkwy D
AM 29.2 C
PM 34.6 C‐
27 Tantau Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard D
AM 47.4 D
PM 56.8 E+
28 Lawrence Expressway and Homestead Roadd E
AM 59.0 E+
PM 58.0 E+
29 I‐280 SB Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevarde E
AM 34.8 C‐
PM 84.9 F
30 Agilent Tech Driveway and Stevens Creek Boulevardf D
AM 52.9 D‐
PM 29.8 C
31 Lawrence Expressway SB Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevardd E
AM 72.8 E
PM 29.9 C
32 Lawrence Expressway NB Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevardd E
AM 53.9 D‐
PM 30.1 C
33 Lawrence Expressway and Calvert Drive/I‐280 SB Rampd E
AM 48.6 D
PM 50.6 D
34 Lawrence Expressway and Bollinger Road/Moorpark Avenued E
AM 60.5 E
PM 46.0 D
35 De Anza Boulevard and Rainbow Drive (south) D
AM 20.2 C+
PM 19.2 B‐
36 Bubb Road/Peninsula Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard D
AM 31.0 C
PM 31.1 C
37 North Stelling Road/Hollenbeck Avenue and Homestead Road D
AM 38.5 D+
PM 43.6 D
38 Blaney Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard D
AM 34.1 C‐
PM 40.0 D
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TABLE 5.1‐10 2040 NO PROJECT AM AND PM PEAK HOUR LEVEL OF SERVICE RESULTS
Study
Intersection Intersection
LOS
Standard
Peak
Hour
Average
Delay
No Project
LOS
39 Foothill Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard D
AM 48.7 D
PM 25.2 C
40 Stelling Road and McClellan Road D
AM 32.1 C‐
PM 35.6 D+
41 Wolfe Road and Apple Campus Access h D
AM 18.9 B‐
PM 36.8 D+
Note: Bold and underlined indicates a substandard level of service.
a. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Cupertino. Cupertino applies its own standard of LOS D to CMP intersections.
b. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Sunnyvale. The CMP’s standard of LOS E applies.
c. The City of Sunnyvale is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
d. This is a CMP Intersection on a County Expressway. The CMP and County’s standard of LOS E applies.
e. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Santa Clara. The CMP’s standard of LOS applies.
f. The City of Santa Clara is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
g. The City of San Jose is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
h. This is a future intersection.
As shown on Table 5.1-10 and listed below, the No Project Alternative would result in significant impacts to
eight (8) intersections during the AM peak hour, the PM peak hour or both peak hours. The intersection
number, as used within the Table 5.1-10, is shown in parentheses.
Homestead Road and De Anza Boulevard/Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road (#5): LOS E – PM peak hour
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6): LOS E – PM peak hour
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): LOS E – PM peak hour
De Anza Boulevard and McClellan Road/Pacifica Drive (#9): LOS E – PM peak hour
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): LOS F – AM peak hour
Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#21): LOS E – PM peak hour
Tantau Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#27): LOSE – PM peak hour
Stevens Creek Boulevard and I-280 SB Ramps/Calvert Drive (#29): LOS F – PM peak hour
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Measure TRAF-1: The City of Cupertino shall commit to preparing and implementing a
Traffic Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that
are necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards. As part
of the preparation of the Traffic Mitigation Fee Program, the City shall also commit to preparing a
"nexus" study that will serve as the basis for requiring development impact fees under AB 1600
legislation, as codified by California Code Government Section 66000 et seq., to support
implementation of the proposed Project. The established procedures under AB 1600 require that a
"reasonable relationship" or nexus exist between the traffic improvements and facilities required to
mitigate the traffic impacts of new development pursuant to the proposed Project. The following
examples of traffic improvements and facilities would reduce impacts to acceptable level of service
standards and these, among other improvements, could be included in the development impact fees
nexus study:
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
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Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5): Widen De
Anza Boulevard to four lanes in each direction or the installation of triple left-turn lanes.
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6): Restriping of De Anza Boulevard in
the southbound direction to provide room for right turn vehicles to be separated from through
traffic may be required. The bike lane would be maintained, and right turns would occur from the
bike lane. The right turns would continue to be controlled by the signal and would need to yield to
pedestrians. Painting a bike box at the front of the lane to provide space for bikes wait at red lights
may enhance the bicycle experience.
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): Restripe westbound Stevens Creek
Boulevard to provide room for right turn vehicles to be separated from through vehicles may be
required. The right turn vehicles will share the bike lane and will still be controlled by the traffic
signal. Paint a bike box at the front of the lane to provide bikes a place to wait at red lights. The
pedestrian crossings will not be affected may enhance the bicycling experience.
De Anza Boulevard and McClellan Road/Pacifica Drive (#9): Realign the intersection
that is currently offset resulting in inefficient signal timing such that the McClellan Road and
Pacifica Drive legs are across from each other may be required. In addition, double left turn lanes
may be required to be added to De Anza Boulevard with sections of double lanes on McClellan
Road and Pacifica Drive to receive the double left turn lanes. These improvements will require the
acquisition of right-of-way and demolition of existing commercial buildings. However, some
existing right-of-way could be abandoned, which would reduce the net right-of-way take.
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): An additional northbound through lane for
a total of three through-movement lanes may be required. This will require widening the Wolfe
Road overcrossing. The lane needs to be extended north of the interchange so that there are a
continuous three lanes northbound. Right-of-way acquisition may be required. In addition to
widening the overcrossing, the City may wish to pursue a redesign of the interchange to go from a
partial cloverleaf design to a diamond design. This could help with heavy volumes in the right lane,
which contributes to the level-of-service deficiency.
Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#21): The restriping of the
westbound leg of the intersection to provide room so that right turn vehicles can be separated from
through vehicles may be required. Right turn vehicles would share the bike lane. Right turn vehicles
would still be controlled by the signal, and pedestrian crossings would not be affected. Paint a bike
box at the front of the lane to provide bikes a place to wait at red lights may enhance the bicycling
experience.
Tantau Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#27): The addition of a separate left-turn lane
to northbound Tantau Avenue may be required. Right-of-way acquisition and demolition of existing
commercial buildings would be required.
Stevens Creek Boulevard and I-280 SB Ramps/Calvert Drive (#29): Make the eastbound
to southbound right turn a free movement. This would require building an island and separating the
right turn from signal control. It also would require building a third southbound lane on Calvert
Drive to receive the right turn traffic.
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The fees shall be assessed when there is new construction, an increase in square footage in an existing
building, or the conversion of existing square footage to a more intensive use. The fees collected shall be
applied toward circulation improvements and right-of-way acquisition. The fees shall be calculated by
multiplying the proposed square footage, dwelling unit, or hotel room by the appropriate rate. Traffic
mitigation fees shall be included with any other applicable fees payable at the time the building permit is
issued. The City shall use the traffic mitigation fees to fund construction (or to recoup fees advanced to
fund construction) of the transportation improvements identified above, among other things that at the
time of potential future development may be warranted to mitigate traffic impacts.
While implementation of Mitigation Measure TRAF-1 would secure a funding mechanism for future
roadway and infrastructure improvements that are necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based
on then current standards, impacts would remain significant and unavoidable, because the City cannot
guarantee improvements at these intersections at this time. This is in part because the nexus study has yet to
be prepared and because some of the impacted intersections are under the jurisdictions of the Cities of
Sunnyvale and Santa Clara and Caltrans. Specifically, the following intersections are outside the jurisdiction
of Cupertino:
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6)
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18)
However, the City of Cupertino will continue to cooperate with these jurisdictions to identify
improvements that would reduce or minimize the impacts to intersections and roadways as a result of
implementation of future development projects in Cupertino.
Significance with Mitigation: Significant and Unavoidable.
Freeway Levels of Service
Ten (10) freeway segments were selected for analysis under 2040 conditions. The addition of project traffic
causes a traffic impact on a CMP freeway segment when:
The LOS of the freeway segment is LOS F under existing conditions, and
The number of new trips added by the project is more than one percent of the freeway capacity.
If there is a percentage increase greater than one (1) percent and the existing LOS is F, then there would be
a significant impact. There were eleven (11) freeway segments identified as having LOS F under existing
conditions. The same eleven (11) freeway segments are also identified as having an impact under the No
Project Alternative, because traffic levels would increase by more than one (1) percent of the mixed-lane
capacity between the existing conditions and the 2040 No Project Alternative conditions on all segments.
SR 85
Northbound between De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard – AM peak hour
Northbound between I-280 and Homestead Road – AM peak hour
Southbound between I-280 and Stevens Creek Boulevard – PM peak hour
Southbound between Stevens Creek Boulevard and De Anza Boulevard – PM peak hour
Southbound between De Anza Boulevard and Saratoga Avenue – PM peak hour
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I-280
Eastbound between Lawrence Expressway and Saratoga Avenue – PM peak hour
Westbound between Saratoga Avenue and Lawrence Expressway – AM peak hour
Westbound between Lawrence Expressway and Wolfe Road – AM peak hour
Westbound between Wolfe Road and De Anza Boulevard – AM peak hour
Westbound between De Anza Boulevard and SR 85 – AM peak hour
Westbound between SR 85 and Foothill Expressway – AM peak hour
Because these impacted freeway segments are under the jurisdiction of Caltrans, it is not feasible for the
City of Cupertino to implement any mitigation measures for any of the freeway segments. Also, because
Caltrans has not identified any improvements for the City of Cupertino to contribute to, these impacts
would be significant and unavoidable.
Significance Without Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
Vehicle Miles Traveled
As described above under Section 4.13.2.1, Regulatory Setting, of Chapter 4.13, Traffic and Transportation,
the VTA countywide travel demand model is used to help evaluate cumulative transportation impacts of
local land use decisions on the CMP system. Therefore, the daily (24-hour) VMT were tabulated with Land
Use Alternative A using the Santa Clara VTA countywide travel demand model with refined land use
estimates for the City of Cupertino. The VMT estimates in the VTA model are sensitive to changes in land
use. Generally, land uses that reflect a more balanced jobs-housing ratio in the VTA model result in lower
per capita VMT.
The total daily VMT and the VMT per capita are presented in Table 5.1-11. As shown in the table, VMT per
capita is forecast to remain unchanged from the 10.5 service population per day in 2040 compared to 2013
under existing conditions. As discussed in the Air Quality discussion above, daily VMT in the Project Study
Area would increase at a greater rate (11.1 percent) between 2013 and 2040 than would the service
population of the Project Study Area (10.5 percent). An increase such as this could be indicative of increased
development of both households and jobs, with potentially higher rates of increases in jobs (than
households) in a relatively jobs-rich area, providing oppor tunities for increases in average trip lengths.
TABLE 5.1‐11 VMT PER CAPITA
Existing Conditions (2013) 2000‐2020 General Plan
Daily VMT 897,419 997,145
Household Units 21,399 23,294
Total Population 58,302 63,873
Total Jobs 27,387 30,848
VMT Per Capita 10.5 10.5
Source: Association of Bay Area Government (ABAG) Projections 2013.
Hexagon Transportation Consultants. 2014.
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The VMT by trip orientation is presented in Table 5.1-12. As shown in the table for the current General
Plan, much of the VMT is oriented to internal-external trip making. However, there is not an overwhelming
imbalance of internal-external trip making over external-internal trip making, and the pattern compared to
existing shows little change.
TABLE 5.1‐12 VMT BY TRIP ORIENTATION
Trip Orientation
2000‐2020
General Plan
2000‐2020 General Plan
VMT Proportions Project
Project VMT
Proportions
Total Cupertino VMTa 897,419 100% 997,145 100%
Internal‐External VMTb 462,789 51% 540,670 54%
External‐Internal VMTc 391,367 44% 413,479 42%
Internal‐External VMTd 43,263 5% 42,996 4%
Notes: Estimate of 2030 VMT is based on the current Comprehensive Plan and on preliminary land use projections.
a. Trips with one trip end outside Cupertino were counted as one trip‐end, whereas trips with both ends in Cupertino
were counted as two trip‐ends.
b. “Internal‐External” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base in Cupertino and a work or
non‐work destination outside Cupertino.
c. “External‐Internal” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base outside Cupertino and a
work or non‐work destination in Cupertino
d. “Internal‐Internal” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base in Cupertino and a work or
non‐work destination in Cupertino.
Source: Hexagon Transportation Consultants. 2014.
As discussed in Section 4.13.2.1, Regulatory Setting, of Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, SB 743
requires impacts to transportation network performance to be viewed through a filter that promotes the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the development of multimodal transportation networks, and a
diversity of land uses. Some alternative metrics were identified in SB 743 including VMT, which can help
identify how projects (land development and infrastructure) influence accessibility (i.e. access to places and
people) and even emissions, but they do not provide information about how the transportation network
performs or functions with respect to efficiency or user experience. Accessibility is an important planning
objective in many communities, including Cupertino, but so is travel time or delay experienced by users. SB
743 does not prevent a city or county from continuing to analyze delay or LOS as part of other plans (i.e.
the general plan), studies, or on-going network monitoring, but once the new CEQA Guidelines are
implemented, which is estimated to be following the certification and adoption by the Secretary for
Resources of the final draft of changes to CEQA Guidelines by OPR on July 1, 2014, these metrics may no
longer constitute the sole basis for CEQA impacts.
While Cupertino does not currently have VMT analysis methodologies, standards, or thresholds of
significance, this analysis has been provided for informational purposes only. However, because future
growth under the proposed Project would come incrementally over approximately 26 years and would be
guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of the principal goals and objectives
established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area, this additional growth would be consistent with
the regional planning objectives established for the Bay Area, which concentrates new development within
infill sites and within PDAs.
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TRAF-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would conflict with an
applicable congestion management program, including, but not limited to
level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other standards
established by the county congestion management agency for designated
roads or highways.
CMP Impacts
Of the 41 study intersections included in this EIR document, 21 are included in Santa Clara County’s CMP.
As shown on Table 5.1-9 and listed above, the results indicate that the following six (6) CMP study
intersections would operate at unacceptable levels of service during the AM peak hour, the PM peak hour or
both peak hours under the 2040 No Project conditions. The intersection number, as used within the Table
5.1-9, is shown in parentheses.
Homestead Road and De Anza Boulevard/Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road (#5): LOS E – PM peak hour
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6): LOS E – PM peak hour
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): LOS F – PM peak hour
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): LOS F – AM peak hour
Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#21): LOS E – PM peak hour
I-280 Southbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#29): LOS F – PM peak hour
Of the above six intersections, only three of them – those with an LOS F -- would fall below the VTA’s CMP
standard, which is LOS E. The three CMP intersections that are within Cupertino’s jurisdiction and have
LOS E (#5, #6, and #21) do not actually fall below the CMP standard, but only below the City of
Cupertino’s standard of D resulting in a significant impact.
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation for these impacts is described above in the Impact TRAF-1, and as discussed, even with
implementation of Mitigation Measures TRAF-1, which includes preparing and implementing a Traffic
Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that are
necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards, the impacts to
these CMP intersections would be significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
TRAF-3 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not substantially
increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g. sharp curves or dangerous
intersection) or incompatible uses (e.g. farm equipment).
Because the No Project Alternative is a program-level planning effort, it does not directly address project-
level design features or building specifications; however, the General Plan includes policies that, once
adopted, would reduce potential hazards due to roadway design or incompatible uses.
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Policy 4-8, Roadway Plans that Complement the Needs of Adjacent Land Use, requires that roadway plans
complement the needs of adjacent land uses; under this policy, the City would be required to adopt road
improvement standards for rural, semi-rural, urban, and suburban roads. Additionally, Policy 4-8 would also
require the City to survey intersections to ensure their operation is efficient and promotes the safety of
pedestrians and bicyclists. Policy 6-14, Roadway Design, requires the City to involve the Fire department in
the design of public roadways. Policy 6-17, Hillside Road Upgrades, would “require new hillside
development to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire Code and City standards.” Policy 4-9, Curb Cuts,
would direct developments to minimize the number of resulting driveway openings, thereby reducing
potential for vehicle conflicts. Policy 4-10, Street Improvement Planning, would require streetscape
planning to be “an integral part of a project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of
people and vehicles,” and Policy 4-11, Safe Parking Lots, would “require parking lots that are safe for
pedestrians.” Policy 4-12, Good Traffic Service on Major Streets, requires the City to encourage through
traffic to use the major arterial and collector streets by maintaining the highest service possible on the
arterial street system. Policy 4-13, Traffic Calming on Local Streets, requires the City to install traffic
calming measures where appropriate to reduce traffic impacts and enhance walkability. Policy 6-57, Road
Improvements to Reduce Truck Impacts, directs the City to consider road improvements, such as medians,
landscaping, and the addition of bicycle lanes to reduce quarry truck impacts. Finally, Strategy 3,
Community Protection, of Policy 4-16, Transportation Noise, Fumes, and Hazards, calls for protecting the
community from the effects of the transportation system, including by enforcing laws related to dangerous
and abusive driving.
Future development under the No Project Alternative would increase in both residential and commercial
land uses. As these land uses develop, construction and modifications of new and existing roadways would be
necessary to support the growth. As with current practice, the improvements would be designed and
reviewed in accordance to the City of Cupertino Standard Details, which are promulgated and administered
by the City Engineering Department. Additionally, incompatible uses would be discouraged by the General
Plan. Future developments and roadway improvements would be designed in accordance to City standards
and will be subject to the General Plan policies. Compliance with the City standards and policies would
ensure that future projects would not significantly increase hazards due to design features or incompatible
uses. Therefore, the impact of the No Project Alternative would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not result in
inadequate emergency access.
Because the No Project Alternative is a program-level planning effort, it does not directly address project-
level design features or building specifications; however, the General Plan contains polices that would ensure
efficient circulation and adequate access are provided in the city, which would help facilitate emergency
response. Policy 6-7, Early Project Review, directs the City to “involve the Fire Department in early design
stages of projects requiring public review.” Policy 6-8, Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection
Guidelines, requires the City to coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new guidelines for fire
protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-9, Fire Prevention and Emergency
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Preparedness, requires the City to promote fire prevention and emergency preparedness through city-
initiated public education programs, through the government television channel, the Internet and the
Cupertino Scene. Policy 6-14, Roadway Design, requires the City to involve the Fire department in the
design of public roadways and directs the City to ensure that frequent median breaks are used to provide
“timely access.” Additionally, Policy 6-15, Dead End Street Access, allows the use of private roadways during
emergency responses in hillside subdivisions where dead-end streets impair access. Policy 6-16, Hillside
Access Routes, directs the city to require new hillside development to have frequent grade breaks in access
routes to ensure a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-17, Hillside Road Upgrades, directs the city
to require new hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire Code and City standards.
Policy 6-18, Private Residential Electronic Security Gates, discourages the use of private residential
electronic security gates to help ensure timely emergency access to these areas. Any new streets or
developments that would result from implementation of the No Project Alternative would be subject to
City engineering standards and the General Plan policies described above.
Ongoing implementation of the General Plan policies and the City’s engineering standards would ensure
that adequate emergency access is provided in Cupertino. Therefore, impacts associated with the
implementation of the No Project Alternative would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not conflict with
adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or
pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of
such facilities.
Both the Valley Transportation Plan 2040, enacted by the Valley Transportation Authority, and Plan Bay Area:
Strategies for a Sustainable Region, the 2040 Regional Transportation Plan enacted by the MTC in 2013,
contain strategies designed to support alternative modes of transportation, including walking, bicycling, and
public transit. Additionally, the City of Cupertino’s Pedestrian Transportation Guidelines and Cupertino
Bicycle Transportation Plan identify and prioritize improvements to enhance the pedestrian and bicycle
environment.
Additionally, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate
public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities are available to the residents of Cupertino. Within the Land
Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-27, Heart of the City Special Area, and supporting strategies,
require the City to create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of mixed-use
development; enhanced activity nodes; and safe and efficient circulation and access for all modes of
transportation. Policy 4-2, Reduced Reliance on the Use of Single-Occupant Vehicles, calls for the City to
promote the use of alternative forms of transportation instead of single-occupancy vehicles (SOVs) by
encouraging attractive alternatives. Supportive strategies under this policy encourage new developments to
include facilities supportive of walking, biking, and transit use, as well as providing street space for bus
turnouts, bike lanes, or other alternative transportation infrastructure. Policy 4-3, Cupertino Pedestrian
Transportation Guidelines and the Cupertino Bicycle Transportation Plan, expressly directs the City to
implement the programs and projects recommended in the Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation Guidelines
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and in the Cupertino Bicycle Transportation Plan, as well as other programs that promote this goal. Policy
2-57, Pedestrian Access, requires the City to create pedestrian access between new subdivisions and school
sites, and to review existing neighborhood circulation plans to improve safety and access for pedestrians and
bicyclists to school sites, including completing accessible network of sidewalks and paths.
Policy 4-4, Regional Trail Development, calls for the City to continue to plan and provide for a
comprehensive system of trails and pathways consistent with regional systems, including the Bay Trail,
Stevens Creek Corridor and Ridge Trail, and with the policies contained in the Land Use and Community
Design Element. The General Alignment of the Bay Trail, as shown in the Association of Bay Area
Governments’ Bay Trail planning document, is incorporated in the General Plan by reference. Policy 4-5,
Increased Use of Public Transit, requires the City to support and encourage the increased use of public
transit. Policy 4-7, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs, requires the City to balance the needs of
pedestrians with desired traffic service, and, where necessary and appropriate, allow a lowered LOS
standard to better accommodate pedestrians on major streets and at specific intersections. Policy 4-10,
Street Improvement Planning, requires the City to plan street improvements such as curb cuts, sidewalks,
bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash containers as an integral part of a project to
ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles with the least possible
disruption to the streetscape. Policy 4-11, Safe Parking Lots, directs the City to require parking lots that are
safe for pedestrians. Policy 4-15, School Traffic Impacts on Neighborhoods, requires the City to minimize
the impact of school drop-off, pick-up and parking on neighborhoods.
The current policies and strategies of the General Plan continued under the No Project Alternative are
consistent with the VTA Valley Transportation Plan 2040, the MTC’s Plan Bay Area, and the City of
Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation Guidelines and Cupertino Bicycle Transportation Plan. Policy 4-3
explicitly directs the City to “Implement the programs and projects recommended in the Cupertino
Pedestrian Transportation Guidelines and in the Cupertino Bicycle Transportation Plan, as well as other
programs that promote this goal.”
Policy 4-2 calls for the City to promote the use of alternative forms of transportation instead of Single-
Occupancy Vehicles (SOVs). Supportive strategies under this policy include encouraging new developments
to include facilities supportive of walking, biking, and transit use, as well as providing street space for bus
turnouts, bike lanes, or other alternative transportation infrastructure. Policy 4-4 calls for development of a
comprehensive system of trails, consistent with regional trail networks. Policy 4-5 directs the City to
support the increased use of public transit, which is consistent with the goals of County and regional
transportation plans. Supportive strategies under this policy include ensuring transit amenities in new
developments, providing transit stop amenities, working to develop a transit station at Vallco Park,
developing rapid transit services, and studying future shuttle services. Policy 4-7 directs the City to balance
competing needs of traffic service and pedestrians. Additional measures that would serve to improve
conditions for bicyclists and pedestrians include Policy 4-9: Curb Cuts, Policy: 4-10 Street Improvement
Planning, Policy 4-11: Safe Parking Lots, and Policy 4-13: Traffic Calming on Local Streets.
Implementation of the No Project Alternative would therefore support and would not conflict with plans,
programs and policies regarding bicycle or pedestrian facilities, or decrease the performance and safety of
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such facilities. Therefore, related impacts from implementation of the No Project Alternative would be less
than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-6 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in a cumulatively
considerable impacts.
The analysis of the No Project Alternative, above, addresses cumulative impacts to the transportation
network in the city and its surroundings; accordingly, cumulative impacts would be the same as No Project
Alternative-specific impacts, which is significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
5.1.6.14 UTILITIES
Water
UTIL-1 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would have sufficient water
supplies available to serve the No Project Alternative from existing
entitlements and resources, and new or expanded entitlements are not
needed.
As previously discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems, of this Draft EIR, the Project Study
Area is within the water utility service area of California Water Service Company (Cal Water) and San Jose
Water Company (SJWC). As discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems, the City undertook a
Water Supply Evaluation (WSE) in May 2014 to assess the adequacy of the water supply for the proposed
Project. (The WSE is included as Appendix H, Utilities and Service Systems Data, of this Draft EIR.) The
WSE found that both Cal Water and SJWC had adequate water supply plans to match the demand forecasts
under the proposed Project. Since the No Project Alternative would include less commercial and residential
growth than the proposed Project, and therefore lower water demands, the No Project Alternative would
have sufficient water supplies to serve it, and new or expanded entitlements would not be needed.
Therefore, the impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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UTIL-2 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not require or result
in the construction of new water facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which would cause significant environmental
effects.
As discussed in Impact UTIL-1 above, the water demand associated with the No Project Alternative would
be served with available and planned water supplies provided by Cal Water and SJWC. The General Plan
includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate water supplies are available for
the residents of Cupertino. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-67, Stevens Creek
Park, requires the Santa Clara County Parks program to pursue the goal of connecting upper and lower
Stevens Creek Parks. The County parks budget should pursue acquisition to the extent possible and
emphasize passive park development in keeping with the pristine nature of the hillsides, and work to keep
the watershed and storage basin properties of Stevens Creek. Policy 2-68, Continuous Open Space, requires
the City to actively pursue inter-agency cooperation in acquiring properties near the western planning area
boundary to complete a continuous open space green belt along the lower foothills, and to connect the open
space to the trail system and the neighborhoods. Policy 2-79, Park Design, requires the City to design parks
to utilize the natural features and topography of the site and to keep long-term maintenance costs low.
Strategy 1, Native Plants, requires the City to maximize the use of native plants and minimize water use.
Strategy 2, Creek Enhancement, requires the City to, where possible, open and restore covered creeks and
riparian habitat. Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles of
Sustainability, requires the City to incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s planning and
development system, including preparation of a Sustainable Energy and Water Conservation Plan.
In addition, future development under the No Project Alternative would be located within already
developed urban areas and therefore, would connect to an existing water distribution system. Future
development would be required to pay fees (construction tax) as outlined in Section 4.14.1.1,
Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems, allocated to service, system
maintenance and capital upgrades.
In summary, in accordance with the General Plan policies listed below and applicable regulations below,
buildout of the No Project Alternative would not result in water demands that would require the
construction of new water treatment facilities or the expansion of existing facilities; thus, impacts would be
less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
The Water Conservation Act of 2009 (Senate Bill SB X7 7)
2010 California Plumbing Code that requires water conserving fixtures
Cupertino’s Landscaping Ordinance – Municipal Code Chapter 14.15
Cupertino’s Water Conservation Ordinance – Municipal Code Chapter 15.32
SJWC’s, Cal Water’s and SCVWD’s water supply and demand management strategies and water
shortage contingency plan identified in the UWMPs
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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UTIL-3 The No Project Alternative, in combination with past, present, and
reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in significant cumulative
impacts with respect to water supply.
This section analyzes potential impacts to water supply that could occur from the No Project Alternative in
combination with other reasonably foreseeable projects in the surrounding area. The geographic scope of
this cumulative analysis is taken as the Cal Water and SJWC service areas. While the No Project Alternative
would contribute to an increased cumulative demand for water supply, the increased demand would not
exceed the long-term supply under normal circumstances, as discussed above. Additionally, Cal Water,
SJWC and Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD) Urban Water Management Plans (UWMPs)
determine that the water supply will be sufficient to accommodate future demand in the Cal Water and
SJWC service areas through 2035, and by extension through 2040, under normal circumstances. As
discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems, in the multiple dry years, with Cal Water, SJWC
and SCVWD drought contingency plans in place, any shortages would be managed through demand
reductions and other measures, such as increased groundwater pumping. In addition, with SB X7 7 and the
State, county, and local water conservation ordinances in place, each jurisdiction would be required to
conserve its water use through establishing water efficiency measures. In addition, pursuant to SB 610 and
SB 221, water supply assessments (WSAs) would be prepared for large development projects prior to
approval of each project to ensure adequate water supply for new development.
Applicable Regulations
The Water Conservation Act of 2009 (Senate Bill SB X7 7)
2010 California Plumbing Code that requires water conserving fixtures
State Updated Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (Assembly Bill 1881 [2006])
SCVWD Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan
SJWC’s, Cal Water’s and SCVWD’s water supply and demand management strategies and water
shortage contingency plan identified in the UWMPs
City of Cupertino General Plan
City of Cupertino Municipal Code
Overall, cumulative water demands would neither exceed planned levels of supply nor require building new
water treatment facilities or expanding existing facilities beyond what is currently planned. In addition,
future development would be required to pay development fees, which would offset the costs of system
maintenance and capital upgrades to support the new development in the Cal Water and SJWC service
areas. Therefore, the cumulative impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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Wastewater
UTIL-4 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would or would not exceed
wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality
Control Board.
San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant
The Cupertino Sanitary District (CSD) sewer collection system directs wastewater to the San Jose/Santa
Clara Water Pollution Control Plant (SJ/SCWPCP), a joint powers authority. The San Francisco Regional
Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) established wastewater treatment requirements for the
SJ/SCWPCP in an NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038), adopted April 8, 2009 and effective June 1,
2009.37 The NPDES Order sets out a framework for compliance and enforcement applicable to operation of
the SJ/SCWPCP and its effluent, as well as those contributing influent to the SJ/SCWPCP. This NPDES
Order currently allows dry weather discharges of up to 167 million gallons per day (mgd) with full tertiary
treatment, and wet weather discharges of up to 271 mgd with full tertiary treatment.
As the dischargers named in the NPDES Permit, the City of San Jose and the City of Santa Clara implement
and enforce pretreatment programs for effluent discharged into Artesian Slough, tributary to Coyote Creek
and South San Francisco Bay. The dischargers conduct programs to educate residents, professionals, and
business owners about the proper use of their sewer and drainage systems in order to help preserve their
own facilities and to help protect the environment.
The CSD is one of six additional satellite collection systems that discharge into the SJ/SCWPCP. Each
satellite collection system is responsible for an ongoing program of maintenance and capital improvements
for sewer lines and pump stations within its respective jurisdiction in order to ensure adequate capacity and
reliability of the collection system. The responsibilities include managing overflows, controlling Infiltration
and Inflow (I&I) and implementing collection system maintenance.
The SJ/SCWPCP, serving as the Discharger, and has an approved pretreatment program, which include
approved local limits, as required by prior permits. The previous permit required the Discharger to evaluate
its local limits –such as those established by the CSD –to ensure compliance with updated effluent limits.
These local limits are approved as part of the pretreatment program required by this permit. The
SJ/SCWPCP is required to monitor the permitted discharges in order to evaluate compliance with permit
conditions.
With continued compliance with applicable regulations listed below, projected wastewater generated from
potential future development under the No Project Alternative would not exceed the wastewater treatment
requirements or capacity of the SJ/SCWPCP. Therefore, the wastewater treatment requirements of the San
37 San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP.
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/board_info/agendas/2009/april/SJSC_FinalOrder%20-%204-09.pdf
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Francisco RWQCB would not be exceeded due to buildout of the No Project Alternative, resulting in a less-
than-significant impact.
City of Sunnyvale Water Pollution Control Plant
The Sunnyvale sewer collection system, which serves a small area of the city along Stevens Creek Boulevard,
directs wastewater to the Sunnyvale Water Pollution Control Plant (SWPCP). The San Francisco RWQCB
established wastewater treatment requirements for the SWPCP in an NPDES Permit (Order No.R2-2009-
0061), adopted August 12, 2009 and effective October 1, 2009. Discharge Prohibition III.C of the permit
states the average dry weather effluent flow shall not exceed 29.5 mgd. Exceeding the treatment SWPCP’s
average dry weather flow design capacity (29.5 mgd) may result in lowering the reliability of achieving
compliance with water quality requirements. The prohibition against exceeding design capacity is meant to
ensure effective wastewater treatment by limiting flows to the SWPCP’s design treatment capability.
Treated wastewater from the SWPCP flows into Moffett Channel, which is a tributary to the Guadalupe
Slough and the South San Francisco Bay. The SWPCP has an average dry weather flow design capacity of
29.5 mgd and a 40 mgd peak wet weather flow capacity. The average dry weather flow discharged to Moffett
Channel during the months of June, July, August, and September in 2006-2008 was 9.4 mgd. The average
flow discharged to Moffett Chanel was 11.8 mgd during 2006 - 2008, the average wet weather flow
(October-May) discharged to Moffett Chanel was 13.1 mgd during 2006 – 2008, and the maximum daily
effluent flow rate was 35 mgd during 2006 -200838.
All public entities that own or operate sanitary sewer systems greater than one mile in length— including
the CSD and the SJ/SCWPCP—that collect and/or convey untreated or partially treated wastewater to a
publicly owned treatment facility in the State of California are required to comply with the terms of State
Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Order. No. 2006-0003-DWQ, as amended by Order No. WQ
2008-0002-EXEC. These public entities are considered “enrollees” of the statewide permit, as amended.
One purpose of the statewide SWRCB permit is to prevent sewer system overflows (SSOs). Major causes of
SSOs include: grease blockages, root blockages, sewer line flood damage, manhole structure failures,
vandalism, pump station mechanical failures, power outages, excessive storm or ground water
inflow/infiltration, debris blockages, sanitary sewer system age and construction material failures, lack of
proper operation and maintenance, insufficient capacity and contractor-caused damages. Many SSOs are
preventable with adequate and appropriate facilities, source control measures and operation and
maintenance of the sanitary sewer system. To facilitate proper management of sanitary sewer systems, each
Enrollee must develop and implement a system-specific Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP).
With continued compliance with applicable regulations listed below, projected wastewater generated from
potential future development under the No Project Alternative would not exceed the wastewater treatment
requirements or capacity of the SWPCP. Therefore, the wastewater treatment requirements of the San
Francisco RWQCB would not be exceeded due to buildout of the No Project Alternative, resulting in a less-
than-significant impact.
38 San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061) for City of Sunnyvale WPCP.
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/board_decisions/adopted_orders/2009/R2-2009-0061.pdf
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Applicable Regulations
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SC WPCP
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061) for SWPCP
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management Plan
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-5 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would or would not require or
result in the construction of new wastewater treatment facilities or expansion
of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant
environmental effects.
Buildout of the No Project Alternative would have a significant impact if it would result in the construction
of new wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which would
have a significant effect on the environment. As discussed above in Impact UTIL-4 above and Impact UTIL-6
below, future demands from the No Project Alternative would not exceed the design or permitted capacity
of the wastewater treatment plants serving the Project Study Area (i.e. SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP). The
potential impacts to the collection system would be addressed through applicable General Plan policies and
measures as identified in Impact UTIL-6 below. In addition, the CSD’s requirement for new projects to
prepare a hydraulic model and, if necessary, improve collection system capacity would ensure that demands
from individual projects in the Project Study Area would not significantly impact the wastewater collection
service. As a result, the impact would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061) for SWPCP
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management Plan
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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PLACEWORKS 5.1-145
UTIL-6 Implementation of the No Project Alter native would or would not result in a
determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may
serve the project that it does not have adequate capacity to serve the project’s
projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments.
Buildout of the No Project Alternative would have a significant impact if future projected demand exceeds
the wastewater service capacity of the SJ/SCWPCP or SWPCP, or the CSD or City of Sunnyvale collection
systems.
Collection Systems
Cupertino Sanitary District
Specific capacity deficiencies for specific sewer lines were identified in the current Cupertino General Plan
update, including sewer lines serving the Town Center, and lines on Stelling Road and Foothill Boulevard.
Trunk lines serving the Town Center identified as flowing either at or above capacity include those in
Stevens Creek Boulevard between Randy Lane and Wolfe Road, and those in Wolfe Road south of I-280 and
between Pruneridge Avenue and I-280. An additional line was also identified as operating at or above
capacity in a 2000 flow study performed as part of the City Center development. This trunk system consists
of 10-inch to 18-inch sewer lines located in Randy Lane, Wheaton Drive, Denison Avenue and Norwich
Avenue. Flow data indicated that segments of this line flowed at 88-percent of capacity. Capacity
improvements have been made to the lines on Wolfe Road. The other lines identified as providing
insufficient capacity for existing flows have not been upgraded to date. When development precedes the
timely construction of necessary downstream capacity improvements, new development that substantially
increase wastewater capacity, including projects potentially associated with No Project Alternative buildout,
could, result in wastewater flows that exceed the collection system capacity. To address this possibility, the
CSD requires developers of substantial projects to demonstrate that adequate capacity exists, or to identify
the necessary mitigations. The CSD defines substantial projects as those projected to generate substantial
increases in wastewater. In these situations, the developer is required to prepare a hydraulic model of the
pipe system between the project and the downstream limits of CSD facilities. To demonstrate capacity is
available, the model must show that existing pipes flow less than two-thirds full when the new development
wastewater flow is added to existing flows. In the event that adequate capacity is not available,
improvements would need to be identified and constructed to provide a system that flows at less than two-
thirds full. The requirement to prepare a hydraulic model and, if necessary, improve capacity is a standard
condition of the CSD required for new development. As a result, impacts on the CSD collection system
would be less than significant.
City of Sunnyvale
Portions of the Heart of the City Special Area east of Finch Avenue and south of Stevens Creek Boulevard
contribute wastewater flows to the City of Sunnyvale Collection System. Development under the No
Project Alternative includes buildout of the remaining 2020 General Plan development allocations. The No
Project Alternative could result in wastewater flows to the City of Sunnyvale that exceed the downstream
pipe capacity if large office developments are allowed. Development in this area is guided by the Heart of
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the City Specific Plan. This Specific Plan does allow office uses in the entire corridor with appropriate
mitigation measures. However, development adjacent to the single family residences on the east side along
Stevens Creek Boulevard would not be large office campuses due to the small size of the properties and the
need to maintain compatibility with adjoining single-family residential uses. Offices allowed in this area
would be smaller, like attorney’s offices or small office spaces. Modification of the Heart of the City Specific
Plan to allow large office space in the area would require further environmental review, which would
address sanitary sewer capacity issues, as well as neighborhood compatibility. Without modification of the
Heart of the City Specific Plan, and since the remaining development allocations are included in the City of
Sunnyvale’s growth projections, the City of Sunnyvale could continue to provide system capacity for future
growth in its Cupertino service area. As a result, impacts on the City of Sunnyvale collection system would
be less than significant.
Treatment Systems
San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant
The SJ/SCWPCP has excess capacity, and would be able to treat wastewater produced by development
under the proposed Project if the City and SJ/SCWPCP enter into an agreement to provide additional
capacity to CSD, which would not require any physical expansion of existing facilities. In addition, as
explained above, flows have decreased over time: in 2000 the flows were 131 mgd and flows in 2010 were
less than 110 mgd.39 The SJ/SCWPCP currently treats 105 mgd. The SJ/SCWPCP Master Plan sets a future
capacity of 450 mgd. The No Project Alternative would not increase development beyond that envisioned by
the current General Plan. As a result, impacts on the contractual treatment capacity at SJ/SCWPCP would
be less than significant.
City of Sunnyvale
The SWPCP generation for the entire Heart of the City Special Area is 0.30 mgd. The portion of this Special
Area served by the SWPCP is 4-percent of the total area of this Special Area. Assuming a uniform use
distribution across the entire Special Area, the wastewater flow to the City of Sunnyvale would be 0.01
mgd. The projected increase amounts to 0.08-percent of the current daily treatment flow of 15 mgd, and
0.04 percent of the SWPCP’s dry weather permitted capacity. Thus, the projected increase in wastewater is
a relatively insignificant amount with respect system capacity and impacts on the SWPCP would be less
than significant.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate wastewater
collection and treatment facilities are available for the residents of Cupertino. Policy 5-45, Coordination
with the Cupertino Sanitary District, requires the City to provide input into the District’s Master Plan
preparation process to ensure that issues relevant to Cupertino’s land use policies are addressed, and work
closely with the District on the implementation of the General Plan. Policy 5-46, Sunnyvale Treatment
Plant, requires the City to consider the impacts on the Sunnyvale sanitary sewer system if significant office
39 San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP.
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/board_info/agendas/2009/april/SJSC_FinalOrder%20-%204-09.pdf
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uses are proposed in the east Stevens Creek Boulevard area. Policy 5-47, Vallco Parkway, requires the City to
recognize that new high discharge users in the Vallco area and the Stevens Creek Boulevard and Blaney
Avenue area will require private developers to pay for the upgrading of tributary lines.
Applicable Regulations
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-7 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would or would not result in
less than significant cumulative impacts with respect to wastewater
treatment.
This section analyzes potential impacts related to wastewater treatment that could occur from the No
Project Alternative in combination with reasonably foreseeable growth within the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP
service areas.
Buildout of the No Project Alternative would generate a minor increase in the volume of wastewater
delivered for treatment at SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP. This increase represents less than 1 percent of the
available treatment capacity at the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP, and it would occur incrementally over a
period of 26 years. Both the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP serving the Project Study Area currently use less
than their design and permitted wastewater treatment capacity. Cumulative wastewater treatment demand
over the proposed No Project Alternative buildout period – based on the recent trends of diminishing
wastewater treatment demand and the projected population growth in the service areas – is far below the
excess capacity of the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP. Because the cumulative demand would not substantially
impact the existing or planned capacity of the wastewater treatment systems, which have sufficient capacity
for wastewater that would be produced by the No Project Alternative, the construction of new wastewater
treatment facilities would not be necessary.
Additionally, future development under the No Project Alternative would be subject to the development
review process and would be required to mitigate any effects to wastewater treatment services on a project-
by-project basis. Future development would also be required to comply with all applicable regulations and
ordinances protecting wastewater treatment services as described in Section 4.14.2.1, Environmental
Setting, in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems.
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Wastewater from cumulative development combined with the No Project Alternative would not exceed
wastewater treatment requirements, and cumulative impacts to sanitary wastewater service would be less
than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Solid Waste
UTIL-8 Implementation of the No Project Alternative would not be served by a
landfill(s) with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the No
Project Alternative’s solid waste disposal needs.
Existing and potential development under the No Project Alternative would not be served by landfill sites
with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the city’s solid waste disposal needs, under existing
contractual agreements. As described in Section 4.14.3.1, Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.14, Utilities
and Service Systems, of this Draft EIR, 99% of all solid waste generated in Cupertino – which includes City
[Recology] hauled waste, as well as self-hauled waste from private projects within the City – is disposed at
four different landfill facilities. One hundred (100) percent of City [Recology] hauled waste – which
accounts for 92 percent of the total waste volume – goes to one landfill (Newby Island).Table 5.1-13
compares the remaining capacity, maximum daily and annual capacity, and estimated closure date for each of
the four landfill facilities.
TABLE 5.1‐13 LANDFILLS EXISTING CAPACITY AND ESTIMATED CLOSURE DATE
Landfill Facility
Remaining Capacity
(cubic yard)
Daily Capacity
(tons/day)
Estimated
Closure Date
Newby Island Landfill 18,274,953
(as of 10/16/2006) 4,000 6/1/2025a
Guadalupe Sanitary Landfill 11,055,758
(as of 1/1/2011) 1,300 1/1/2048
Monterey Peninsula Landfill 48,560,000
(as of 12/31/2004) 3,500 2/28/2107
Altamont Landfill 45,720,000
(as of 8/22/2005) 11,500 1/1/2025
a. The agreement between the Newby Island Landfill and the City of Cupertino ends in 2023.
Source: CalRecycle, 2014.
In 2012, the City of Cupertino’s actual disposal rate for residents was 2.6 pounds per person per day (PPD)
with the target of 4.3 PPD. For employees, the disposal rate was 4.3 PPD with the target rate of 8.1 PPD.40
The city of Cupertino’s disposal rates for both residents and employees have been below target rates and
steadily decreasing since 2007.41
40 CalRecycle, “Jurisdiction per Capita Disposal Trends: Cupertino,” http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/, accessed May 15, 2014.
41 CalRecycle, “Jurisdiction per Capita Disposal Trends: Cupertino,” http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/, accessed May 15, 2014.
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The per capita disposal rate target is also known as “the 50% equivalent per capita disposal target.” It is the
amount of disposal Cupertino would have had during the CalRecycle-designated base period (2003 – 2006)
if it had been exactly at a 50% diversion rate. It is calculated by CalRecycle using the average base period
per capita generation for Cupertino (in pounds), then dividing this generation average in half to determine
the 50% equivalent per capita disposal target. The target is an indicator for comparison with that
jurisdiction’s annual per capita per day disposal rate beginning with the 2007 program year.
As shown on Table 5.2-21, at 2040 buildout of the No Project Alternative, it is anticipated that the city will
generate solid waste at a rate of 95,725 tons/year, which equates to approximately 262 tons/day. Although
the anticipated amount of solid waste is below daily per capita disposal targets, two of four landfill facilities
that receive the majority of the city’s solid waste are likely to reach their permitted maximum capacities by
2040. The Newby Island Landfill facility will reach its capacity in 2025 (the City’s agreement with the
facility ends earlier, in 2023), and Altamont Landfill also is anticipated to reach its capacity in 2025, as
shown in the Table 5.1-13. Since the Newby Island Landfill facility currently accepts 92 percent of the solid
waste generated by Cupertino, the City must find an alternative to this landfill when it closes in
approximately ten years.
Anticipated rates of solid waste disposal would have a less-than-significant impact in regard to target disposal
rates, and the City would continue its current recycling ordinances and zero-waste policies. Nevertheless,
the 2023 termination of the agreement between the Newby Island Landfill facility, as well as the facility’s
estimated closure date in 2025 would result in insufficient solid waste disposal capacity at buildout of the No
Project Alternative, resulting in a significant impact.
Mitigation Measure
The following mitigation measure is recommended to minimize the potential for the No Project Alternative
to not be served by a landfill(s) with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the No Project
Alternative’s solid waste disposal needs:
Mitigation Measure UTIL-8: The City shall continue its current recycling ordinances and zero-
waste policies in an effort to further increase its diversion rate and lower its per capita disposal rate. In
addition, the City shall monitor solid waste generation volumes in relation to capacities at receiving
landfill sites to ensure that sufficient capacity exists to accommodate future growth. The City shall seek
new landfill sites to replace the Altamont and Newby Island landfills, at such time that these landfills are
closed.
Implementation of Mitigation Measure UTIL-8 would serve to ensure sufficient capacity of landfill is
available for future development under the No Project Alternative. In addition, the trend of lower per capita
solid waste volumes would continue to reduce the amount of waste disposed at landfills overall, which may
delay the estimated closure date of landfill sites, including the Newby Island Landfill facility. With
incorporation of the above Mitigation Measure UTIL-8, related to the potential for the No Project
Alternative to not be served by a landfill(s) with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate No Project
Alternative’s solid waste disposal needs, impacts would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
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NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
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UTIL-9 The No Project Alternative would not be out of compliance with federal,
State, and local statues and regulations related to solid waste.
As discussed in Section 4.14.3 of this Draft EIR, the City has complied with State requirements to reduce
the volume of solid waste through recycling and reuse of solid waste. The City’s per capita disposal rate is
below the target rate established by CalRecycle. Cupertino adopted a Source Reduction and Recycling
Element (SRRE) and a Household Hazardous Waste Element (HHWE) in compliance with the California
Integrated Waste Management Act. The City has gone beyond the SRRE by implementing several programs,
including the City’s and Recology’s organics or food waste collection program and Environmental Recycling
Day events offered to residents three times per year by Recology. Implementation of the referenced
strategies, plans, and programs, as well as the Climate Action Plan that launched in May 2014, will enable
the city to meet the 75 percent of solid waste by the year 2020. These programs will be sufficient to ensure
that future development in Cupertino would not compromise the ability to meet or perform better than the
State mandated target.
TABLE 5.1‐14 PROJECTED RESIDENTS, EMPLOYMENT, AND WASTE GENERATION AT 2040 BUILDOUT – NO PROJECT
ALTERNATIVE
2012a Existing 2040 Buildout
Residents 59,022 58,302 63,873
Employment 35,438 27,387 30,848
Residential Disposal Rate Target
(pounds/person/day) 4.3 4.3 4.3
Employee Disposal Rate Target
(pounds/person/day) 8.1 8.1 8.1
Maximum Disposal (tons/year) 98,704 86,237 95,725
Actual Disposal (tons/year) 27,652 – –
a. The latest data on the actual disposal information was from 2012.
Source: CalRecycle, 2014.
Construction and demolition associated with future development under the No Project Alternative would
generate significant solid waste. At least 60 percent of this waste, however, would be expected to be
diverted from landfill disposal by recycling in accordance with the City’s construction debris ordinance.
Therefore, future development would comply with applicable statutes and regulations and the impact would
be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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UTIL-10 The No Project Alternative, in combination with past, present, and reasonably
foreseeable projects, would result in significant cumulative impacts with
respect to solid waste.
The buildout of the No Project Alternative will increase the quantity of solid waste for disposal. Although
AB 939 established a goal for all California cities to provide at least 15 years of ongoing landfill capacity,
growth from other cities in the region may exceed that which was taken into account when calculating
landfill capacity. Also, because the Newby Island Landfill facility, which takes approximately 92 percent of
the City's solid waste, is expected to close in 2025, Cupertino may eventually experience insufficient landfill
capacity to accommodate existing or increased population and employment levels.
As discussed in Section 4. 11, Population and Housing, of this Draft EIR, projected growth in Cupertino
with the No Project Alternative is lower than that anticipated by regional projections. The 2040 buildout
under the No Project Alternative would add 7,827 fewer residents than ABAG’s 2040 projection for
Cupertino, and the 2040 buildout employment levels and housing units are well below regional projections.
Table 5.1-15 compares the 2040 buildout of the No Project Alternative and the regional growth scenario.
TABLE 5.1‐15 BUILDOUT AND REGIONAL GROWTH COMPARISON – NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE
ABAG Projection 2040 Buildout Difference
Residents 71,700 63,873 ‐7,827
Housing Units 24,180 23,294 ‐886
Employment 33,260 30,848 ‐2,412
Source: Association of Bay Area Governments, Plan Bay Area, Projections 2013, Subregional Study Area Table, Santa Clara
County; PlaceWorks, 2014.
Although implementation of existing waste reduction programs and diversion requirements discussed above
would reduce the potential for exceeding existing capacities of landfills, the potential lack of landfill capacity
for disposal of solid waste would have a significant impact. However, with incorporation of the Mitigation
Measure UTIL-8, this impact related to the potential for the No Project Alternative, in combination with
past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, to result in significant cumulative impacts with respect to
solid waste, would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Significant.
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Energy Conservation
UTIL-11 Implementation of the No Project Alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would or would not result in a
substantial increase in natural gas and electrical service demands, and would
not require new energy supply facilities and distribution infrastructure or
capacity enhancing alterations to existing facilities.
The No Project Alternative, upon buildout, would result in increases to residential and commercial
development consistent with those envisioned by the current General Plan. The proposed increase in
development would result in a long-term increase in energy demand, associated primarily with the
operation of lighting and space heating/cooling in the added building space. In addition, construction
activities associated with development require the use of energy (e.g. electricity and fuel) for various
purposes such as the operation of construction equipment and tools, as well as excavation, grading,
demolition, and vehicle travel.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure energy conservation is
practiced in Cupertino. Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability, requires the City to incorporate the
principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s planning and development system. Policy 5-2, Conservation and
Efficient Use of Energy Resources, requires the City to encourage the maximum feasible conservation and
efficient use of electrical power and natural gas resources for new and existing residences, businesses,
industrial and public uses. Strategy 1, Alternate Energy sources, requires the City to encourage the use of
solar energy and other alternate, renewable energy resources for all new and significantly renovated private
and public buildings, to ensure that all homes have an acceptable balance of access to the sun and protection
from it, and to promote new technologies, such as waterless water heaters to effect this change. Strategy 2,
Comprehensive Energy Management Plan, requires the City to prepare and implement a comprehensive
energy management plan for all applicable public facilities, equipment, procurement, and construction
practices. Strategy 4, Energy Efficient Replacements, requires the City to use life cycle cost analysis to
identify City assets for replacement with more energy efficient replacements. Strategy 5, Incentive
Program, requires the City to implement an incentive program to include such items as reduced permit fees
for building projects that exceed Title 24 requirements, and to promote other incentives from the State,
County and Federal Governments for improving energy efficiency by posting information regarding
incentive, rebate and tax credit programs on the City’s web site. Strategy 6, Solar Access Standards, requires
the City to ensure compliance with the State of California Subdivision Map Act solar access standards in
order to maximize natural heating and cooling opportunities for future residences and to encourage the
inclusion of additional shade trees and landscaping for energy efficiency. Strategy 8, Energy Cogeneration
Systems, requires the City to encourage the use of energy cogeneration systems through the provision of an
awareness program targeting the larger commercial and industrial users and public facilities. Strategy 9,
Regulation of Building Design, requires the City to ensure designers, developers, applicants and builders
meet California Title 24 Energy Efficient Building Standards and encourage architects, building designers
and contractors to exceed “Title 24” requirements for new projects through the provision of incentives, to
encourage either passive solar heating and/or dark plaster interior with a cover for swimming pools, cabanas
and other related accessory uses where solar access is available, and to encourage the use of alternative
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renewable sources where feasible, and develop energy audits or subvention programs. Strategy 10, Use of
Discretionary Development Permits (Use Permits), requires the City to require, as conditions of approval
for new and renovated projects, the provision of energy conservation/efficiency applications. Strategy 11,
Energy Efficient Transportation Modes, requires the City to encourage alternative, energy efficient
transportation modes such as “clean” multi-modal public transit, car and vanpooling, flexible work hours,
and pedestrian and bicycle paths.
Policy 5-3, Green Building Design, requires the City to set standards for the design and construction of
energy and resource conserving/efficient buildings (Green Building Design). Strategy 1, “Green Building”
Program, requires the City to prepare and implement “Green Building” standards for all major private and
public projects that ensure reduction in energy consumption for new development through site and building
design. Strategy 2, Building Energy Audits, requires the City to participate in and encourage building energy
audits, where feasible, for commercial, industrial and city facilities and convey to the business and industrial
communities that energy conservation/efficiency is, in the long term, economically beneficial. PG&E also
offers energy evaluation tools and services free of charge.
Future new development would be constructed using energy efficient modern building materials and
construction practices. The new buildings also would use new modern appliances and equipment, and would
comply with the current CALGreen Building Code, which requires the use of recycled construction
materials, environmentally sustainable building materials, building designs that reduce the amount of energy
used in building heating and cooling systems as compared to conventionally built structures, and landscaping
that incorporates water efficient irrigation systems.With the implementation of these General Plan policies
and the CALGreen Building Code, significant energy conservation and savings would be realized in future
new development. Even with the energy saving practices in place, it is possible that new electrical switches
and/or transformers might be required to handle additional loads. However, potential environmental
impacts from possible new electrical switches/transformers are not anticipated to be significant and, if
necessary, would be addressed in project-specific reviews. In addition, buildout of the No Project
Alternative would not significantly increase energy demands in the context of the 70,000 square mile PG&E
service territory for electricity and natural gas generation, transmission and distribution. As a result, new
energy supply facilities and distribution infrastructure or capacity enhancing alterations to existing facilities
would not be required. Therefore, with consideration of the applicable regulations listed below, impacts
related to energy conservation would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
Federal Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007
Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005
California Building Code (Title 24, CCR)
California 2006 Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20, CCR Sections 1601 through 1608)
Governor’s Green Building Executive Order (S-20-04)
City of Cupertino General Plan, Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element
City of Cupertino Municipal Code, Chapter 16.58, Green Building Standards
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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5.1.7 RELATIONSHIP OF THE ALTERNATIVE TO THE OBJECTIVES
As discussed in Section 3.5, Project Objectives, of Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, the
primary purpose of the proposed Project is to: 1) replenish, re-allocate, and increase citywide office,
commercial, hotel, and residential development allocations in order to plan for anticipated future growth
while, sustaining the community’s character, goals, and objectives; 2) consolidate development requests by
several property owners for amendments to the General Plan, by reviewing seven Study Areas; and 3)
provide a full range of housing to meet the needs of all segments of the city’s population.
The City has also drafted a 2040 Community Vision and Guiding Principles as part of the overall Project,
which builds upon the framework of the current General Plan’s vision, goals, and guiding principles, and
reflects the community’s desires for Cupertino’s future. The proposed Project is based on the vision for the
city 1) to be a balanced community with: quiet and attractive residential neighborhoods; exemplary parks
and schools; accessible open space areas, hillsides, and creeks; and a vibrant, mixed-use “Heart of the City;”
and 2) to be safe, friendly, healthy, connected, walkable, bikeable, and inclusive for all residents and
workers, with ample places and opportunities for people to interact, recreate, innovate and collaborate. This
vision statement is included in the proposed General Plan and outlines the objectives of the proposed
Project.
Under No Project Alternative, the development allocation would not be increased, and the allocations listed
in Table 5.1-1 would remain in place until 2040. Therefore, the No Project Alternative would not replenish,
re-allocate, or increase citywide office and commercial uses and hotel rooms and consolidate development
requests by several property owners on the seven Study Areas. Conversely, the No Project Alternative would
accommodate the RHNA for the 2014-2022 planning period to allow the city to meet its fair share housing
obligation of 1,064 units; however, given the broad spectrum of housing opportunities outlined under the
proposed Project, this Alternative would not provide the same range of housing to meet the needs of all seg-
ments of the city’s population and allow flexibility for the city when future state-mandated updates are
required to the Housing Element. Thus, the proposed Project would not result in and updated Housing
Element, as required by State law. Accordingly, as shown in Table 5-2, in Chapter 5.0, Alternatives, of this
Draft EIR, while the No Project Alternative would meet some of the objectives, this Alternative would not
meet the overall intent of the proposed Project.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-1
5.2 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
Alternative A would largely continue the policies of the current General Plan, while making minor
development allocation and boundary changes throughout the buildout horizon year of 2040. The amended
General Plan policies for Alternative A are shown in Appendix I, Proposed General Plan Policy
Amendments, of this Draft EIR.
Under this Alternative, height limits will not be increased and no other changes to the development
standards in the current General Plan or Zoning Ordinance would occur. However, development allocations
will be redistributed and increased. Table 5.2-1 shows the total built and/or approved development for
2013 (“Existing”) conditions, the current General Plan development allocations (“Remaining”), and the
2040 buildout projections for this Alternative. As shown in Table 5.2-1, this Alternative would result in an
increase of 500,000 square feet of office space allocation, and 261 hotel rooms above the remaining
development allocation in the 2000-2020 General Plan, which is estimated to result in up to 1,745
additional jobs. There would be no increase in development allocation for commercial space or residential
units; however, commercial and residential units would be redistributed throughout the city under this
Alternative, as described below.
TABLE 5.2‐1 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION & PROJECTIONS SUMMARY
Category
Existinga
(2013)
Remaining
(No Project)
Net New
Proposed
Total in Land Use
Alternative Ab
Buildout
(2040)b
Office 8,929,774 sf 540,231 sf + 500,000 sf 1,040,231 sf 9,970,005 sf
Commercial 3,729,569 sf 701,413 sf 0 sf 701,431 sf 4,430,982 sf
Hotel 1,090 rooms 339 rooms + 261 rooms 600 rooms 1,690 rooms
Residential 21,399 units 1,895 units 0 units 1,895 units 23,294 units
Population 58,302 5,571 0 5,571d 63,873
Jobs 27,837 3,461 +1,745 5,206e 32,593
Note: sf = square feet
a. The amount of development that is built and approved in the city and the population and jobs accounted for in 2013.
b. The “remaining” (i.e. what is expected under No Project “Current General Plan” conditions) plus the “net new proposed” equals the total new
buildout potential under the Land Use Alternative A.
c. The “existing” (i.e. built/approved 2013 baseline) plus the “Land Use Alternative A” equals the total 2040 buildout projections.
d. Population is calculated by 1,895 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
e. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 1,040,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square feet equals
3,467 jobs; 701,431 square feet of commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 1,559 jobs; and 600 hotel rooms at .3 jobs per room
equals 180 jobs for a total of 5,206 jobs.
Source: City of Cupertino.
Alternative A would focus on how office and hotel growth in Cupertino could occur if Cupertino largely
continues the policies of the current General Plan, while making minor development allocation changes in
these two categories. Under this Alternative, office allocation would be increased primarily in the Heart of
the City Specific Plan area and the Major Employers development allocation category, which represent areas
that can absorb new office development under the framework of the current General Plan.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-2 JUNE 18, 2014
As shown in Table 5-2, in Chapter 5, Alternatives to the Proposed Project, of this Draft EIR, the No Project
Alternative would allocate, Land Use Alternative A would allocate 74 percent less office space, 48 percent
less commercial space, 55 percent fewer hotel rooms, and 57 percent fewer residential units and new
residents. In addition, as shown in Table 5-4, when compared to the proposed Project at 2040 buildout out,
Land Use Alternative A is projected to result in 23 percent less office space, 13 percent less commercial
space, 30 percent fewer hotel rooms, 10 percent fewer residential units and new population, and 26 percent
fewer jobs.
The differences between the proposed Project and the Land Use Alternative A would be incremental and
even if no action was taken, regional growth, and the associated environmental effects linked to this growth,
would continue to occur under the provisions of the current 2000-2020 General Plan.
5.2.1 OFFICE DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
The office allocation in the Heart of the City would be increased to 315,000 square feet, which represents
an increase of 297,887 square feet over the remaining 17,113 square feet. The Major Employers category
would increase to 625,000 square feet, which represents an increase of 101,882 square feet. Under this
Alternative, the Special Areas and development allocation categories would increase office space
development allocations as follows:
Homestead: 10,000 square feet
North Vallco Park: 30,000 square feet
Heart of the City: 315,000 square feet
North De Anza: 25,000 square feet
South De Anza: 10,000 square feet
Other Non-Residential: 5,000 square feet
Bubb Road: 15,000 square feet
Monta Vista Village: 5,231 square feet
Major Employers: 625,000 square feet
5.2.2 COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
Under this Alternative, the Heart of the City Special Area remaining commercial development allocation of
695,629 square feet would be reduced by 195,629 square feet and redistributed in the other Special Areas,
which, with the exception of the Monta Vista Special Area, currently have no commercial space
development allocation remaining under the current General Plan. The Monta Vista Village Special Area
currently has 5,784 square feet of undeveloped commercial space remaining. The commercial development
allocation would be increased and distributed as follows under this Alternative:
Homestead: 70,000 square feet
North Vallco Park: 50,000 square feet
Heart of the City: 500,000 square feet
North De Anza: 10,000 square feet
South De Anza: 50,000 square feet
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PLACEWORKS 5.2-3
Other Non-Residential: 12,000 square feet
Monta Vista Village: 9,431 square feet
5.2.3 HOTEL DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
Under existing conditions, the Heart of the City Specific Area has a remaining development allocation of
339 hotel rooms. Under this Alternative, 261 new hotel rooms would be added for a total of 600 hotel
rooms and would be distributed as follows:
Homestead: 125 rooms
North Vallco Park: 100 rooms
Heart of the City: 375 rooms
5.2.4 HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
Although the existing development allocations would limit overall development, the residential unit
development allocation under this Alternative would accommodate the Regional Housing Needs Allocation
(RHNA) for the 2014-2022 planning period and allow the city to meet its fair-share housing obligation of
1,064 housing units. As shown in Table 5.2-1 above, the residential allocation under this Alternative would
allow for construction of up to 1,895 housing units, which represents 831 units above the Cupertino’s fair-
share housing obligation. The remaining housing development allocation would be allocated throughout the
city by reducing the total number of new housing in the Vallco North and Bubb Road Employments Center
by 197 units and 94 units, respectively; the South De Anza Commercial Center by 80 units; the Monta Vista
Village Neighborhood by 4 units; and the Other Neighborhoods by 106 units. Under this Alternative, new
residential units would be distributed in the Special Areas as follows:
Homestead: 200 units
North Vallco Park: 100 units
Heart of the City: 1,000 units
North De Anza: 170 units
South De Anza: 150 units
Other Non-Residential: 70 units
Monta Vista Village: 70 units
Other Neighborhoods: 135 units
5.2.5 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
The following section describes development standards that would be applicable to future development
under implementation of Land Use Alternative A.
Under Land Use Alternative A, the maximum allowable height would remain unchanged in all Special Areas;
heights applicable to Gateways would remain unchanged from existing conditions. Existing heights are
described in Section 3.7.1, Corridors with Gateways/ Nodes, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this
Draft EIR.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
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Under this Alternative, density would remain unchanged over existing conditions throughout the Special
Areas, including Gateways and Nodes, with the exception of the South De Anza Corridor, where density
would be increased from 15 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) to 25 du/ac. Existing densities are described in
Section 3.7.1, in Chapter 3 of this Draft EIR.
STUDY AREAS 5.2.5.1
Under this Alternative, the height and density would remain unchanged. For a detailed discussion of the
seven Study Areas, including height and density, please refer to Section 3.7.2, Study Areas, in Chapter 3,
Project Description, of this Draft EIR.
HOUSING ELEMENT SITES 5.2.5.2
Under this Alternative, the Housing Element Sites, as described in detail in Section 3.6.4, Housing Element
Sites, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of the Draft EIR, are proposed as follows:
Housing Element Site 1 (Shan Restaurant)
Housing Element Site 2 (Arya/Scandinavian Design)
Housing Element Site 3 (United Furniture/East of East Estates Drive)
Housing Element Site 4 (Barry Swenson)
Housing Element Site 5 (Glenbrook Apartments)
Housing Element Site 6 (The Villages Apartments)
Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property)
Housing Element Site 13 (Loree Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza)
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds & Granite Rock)
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 19 (Cypress Building Association & Hall Property)
The height and density for each Housing Element Site would remain unchanged from existing conditions
except for Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds and Granite Rock), which would increase the permitted
density from 15 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) to 25 du/ac and a change to the Zoning designation from
Planned Development with General Commercial and Residential (P(CG, Res 5-15)) to (P(CG, Res)). In
addition, Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center) would require a change to the Zoning
designation from P(CG) to Planned Development with General Commercial, and Residential(P(CG, Res,))
to allow for future mixed-use development including residential uses. For a detailed discussion of the
Housing Element Sites, including height and density, please refer to Section 3.7.4, Housing Element Sites,
in Chapter 3 of this Draft EIR.
5.2.6 GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP AND ZONING ORDINANCE
AND MAP AMENDMENTS
Land Use Alternative A will also include revisions to the City’s Land Use Map and Zoning Ordinance and
Map for consistency with the current General Plan, as a result of changes to Housing Element policies that
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-5
are required by State Law,1 or as adopted by the City Council, and by correcting inconsistencies of existing
land uses identified by the City. The Special Areas and Housing Element Sites described in this chapter have
been identified for their appropriateness for additional commercial, office, hotel, and for housing. The City
would rezone and change the land use designations, densities, and height standards for these Sites to
accommodate the additional land uses as described in this chapter. Under Land Use Alternative A, the same
Land Use and Zoning Ordinance and Map amendments would occur as with the proposed Project as
detailed in Section 3.7.4, Housing Element Sites, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR.
OTHER GENERAL PLAN AND ZONING CHANGES 5.2.6.1
Other changes to the General Plan text and figures, and Zoning Ordinance are proposed to include bringing
sites with inconsistent land use and zoning designations into consistency, the identification of new
neighborhood areas, a new Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services Element, the minor reformatting,
reorganization and addition of clarifying or descriptive language to the General Plan and the method in
which residential density is calculated.
General Plan Land Use Map and Zoning Map Conformance
The City has identified specific sites, shown on Figure 3-40, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of the Draft
EIR, that represent locations where there are inconsistencies between existing land use and the current
General Plan land use designation and/or Zoning designation for the location. Under the proposed Project,
the General Plan or the Zoning Ordinance and/or Maps will be amended to bring consistency between the
existing use and the General Plan land use and/or Zoning for the location. Table 3-22 in Chapter 3, Project
Description, lists the parcels with known inconsistencies and shows how the General Plan and Zoning
amendments under Land Use Alternative A will bring these locations into conformance with the current
General Plan. Because these locations are currently developed and the amendments are being made to
reflect the current use on the property, these amendments will not result in new development potential at
these locations.
New Neighborhoods
New neighborhood names and boundaries would be established under Land Use Alternative A. The new
neighborhood names are commonly used by the residents of Cupertino, and this process will formalize the
neighborhood names and define their boundaries on a map. No new development potential would occur as
result of the new names or boundary identification. The new neighborhood names and boundaries are shown
on Figure 3-19, Other Special Areas including Neighborhoods and Non-Residential/Mixed-Use Special
Areas and are listed in Section 3.6.3.3, Other Neighborhoods, in Chapter 3, Project Description.
1 Specific State Law includes, but is not limited to, the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, California’s Fair Employment
and Housing Act, and the State’s Housing Element law.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
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Public Utilities, Infrastructure, and Services Element
In order to better organize the General Plan, the City has reorganized the of policies within existing
Chapters (Elements) of the General Plan and relocated these policies in a newly created Chapter for the
purposes of consolidating policies related to Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services. The policies that
will be part of the new Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services Element are listed in Appendix I,
Proposed General Plan Policy Amendments, of this Draft EIR.
City of Cupertino Historical Register
The Seven Springs Ranch, built in 1866 and located at 11801 Dorothy Anne Way in Cupertino, is listed on
the Office of Historic Preservation Directory Listings. This site has been nominated for inclusion in the
National Register; however, it is not currently listed in either the National Register of Historic Places or the
California Register of Historical Resources. As part of the proposed Project, this site would be added to the
City’s list of Historically Significant Resources. This This Cultural Resources Site is discussed in detail in
Chapter 4.5, Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR and is shown on Figure 4.4-1, Cultural Resources, as Site
23.
Residential Density
In the context of planning, residential density is the amount of residential units within a given area.
Insufficient density can lead to problems in supporting neighborhood-serving retail and services, difficulties
in offering a wider range of housing options, and an inability to provide the critical mass necessary to
support public transportation. The City currently calculates residential density as “gross” density, which is
the number of units divided by the acreage of the entire area. Under the proposed Project, the City would
calculate residential density as “net” density, whic h is the number of units divided by the acreage of
residential land. The residential density under Land Use Alternative A as described in this chapter has be
calculated by net density.
5.2.7 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A ANALYSIS
AESTHETICS 5.2.7.1
AES-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have a substantial
adverse effect on a scenic vista.
Future development under Land Use Alternative A would have the potential to affect scenic vistas and/or
scenic corridors if new or intensified development blocked views of areas that provide or contribute to such
vistas. Potential effects could include blocking views of a scenic vista/corridor from specific publically
accessible vantage points or the alteration of the overall scenic vista/corridor itself. Such alterations could
be positive or negative, depending on the characteristics of individual future developments and the
subjective perception of observers.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-7
Public views of scenic corridors are considered those views as seen along a linear transportation route and
public views of scenic vistas are those views with of specific scenic features. Scenic vistas are generally
interpreted as long-range views, while scenic corridors are comprised of short-, middle-, and long-range
views. As stated in Section 4.1.1, Environmental Setting, of Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of the Draft EIR, the
current General Plan does not have designated scenic corridors or vistas. However, for this analysis, the
westward views of the foothills and ridgelines of the Santa Cruz Mountains are considered scenic vistas; and
the State-designated, an eligible State Scenic Highway segment of Interstate 280 (I-280), from Santa Clara
County line on the west and Interstate 880 (I-880) on the east, is considered a scenic corridor. The impacts
to the State-designated view corridor are discussed below under Impact AES-2.
In addition to the potential for new development under implementation of Land Use Alternative A, there
would be a number General Plan policies that could affect scenic vistas. Even so, other policies within the
General Plan, as well as provisions of the Municipal Code would continue to regulate development, thereby
preventing significant impacts to scenic vistas.
Policies 2-23 through 2-33 collectively reflect the changes to land use, development intensity, development
allocations, and Special Areas that constitute the Project Components—as described in detail in Chapter 3,
Project Description. Since the content of these particular policies is directly integrated with and reflective
of Land Use Alternative A as a whole, impact discussions for the effects of Land Use Alternative A
necessarily encompass analysis of these particular policies.
General Plan Policy 2-15, Urban Building Forms, includes minor changes, including the combination of two
previous strategies regarding building massing and height, and amended Policy 2-16, Attractive Building and
Site Design, includes a new strategy requiring the screening of utilities areas in new developments. Changes
to acceptable heights and densities, are an integral part of the City’s amended land use policies, and these
changes are included as part of the project description. Therefore, the potential for physical impacts from
amended policies 2-15 and 2-16 are addressed in the analysis of overall implementation of this Alternative,
which would continue to be governed by General Plan and Municipal Code policies related to aesthetic
impacts. Additionally, the amendments to Policy 2-16 would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new
developments. Finally, as individual projects are proposed, each would continue to be required to undergo
development review that would ensure conformance with other General Plan and Municipal Code policies
regarding aesthetics, including any applicable requirements for approval by the Design Review Committee.
Policy 2-20, Streetscape Design, would require that development or redevelopment projects consider
unique streetscape choices for different parts of Cupertino, including conforming to the Crossroad Area
Streetscape Plan.
Policies 2-88 and 5-48 would respectively serve to enhance the aesthetic quality of Cupertino by
encouraging new “demonstration gardens” and promoting the undergrounding of utility lines. Especially
with regard to Policy 5-48, these amended policies would serve to mitigate potential aesthetic impacts of
future developments under the proposed Project.
As described in detail in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR,
the Project Component locations, where potential future development is expected to occur, would be
concentrated on a limited number of vacant parcels and in the form of infill/intensification on sites either
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already developed and/or underutilized, and/or in close proximity to existing residential and residential-
serving development, where future development would have a lesser impact on scenic vistas. Proposed
changes under Land Use Alternative A consist primarily of increased development intensities.
Given no increases in proposed building heights, potential new development under Land Use Alternative A
is not anticipated to block the far-field views of the Santa Cruz Mountain Range and foothills from various
vantage points throughout the city. Furthermore, provided that the topography in the Project Component
locations is essentially flat, the views from street-level public viewing to the scenic resources are currently
inhibited by existing conditions such as buildings, structures, and mature trees/vegetation, the maximum
heights currently permitted limit the opportunity for these views from street-level public viewing , and the
distributed nature of the Project Component locations with maximum height increases, future development
under Land Use Alternative A is not anticipated to further obstruct public views of scenic resources from
within the city. Similar views would continue to be available between projects and over lower density areas.
Considering this and the fact that the Project Component locations are not considered destination public
viewing points nor are they visible from scenic vistas, overall impacts to scenic vistas would be less than
significant.
Furthermore, potential future development would, if necessary, be subject to the Architectural and Site
Review process, in accordance with Section 19.168, Architectural and Site Review, of the Zoning Ordinance
or would be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in the Heart of the City Specific Plan, the
Monta Vista Design Guidelines, or the Vallco Master Plan and Conceptual Plans discussed in Section 4.1.1.1,
Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR. In addition, the General Plan includes
policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure future development in Cupertino that would
conceivably reduce potential aesthetic impacts of future development under this Alternative. Within the
Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-1, Focus Development in Mixed-Use Special Areas,
requires the City to, in the mixed-use Special Areas where office, commercial and residential uses are
allowed, focus higher intensity development and increased building heights where appropriate in designated
corridors, gateways and nodes. Policy 2-15, Urban Building Forms, requires the City to concentrate urban
building forms in the mixed-use Special Areas which would ensure that higher intensity development is
limited to the major Special Areas. Policy 2-16, Attractive Building and Site Design, requires the City to
emphasize attractive building and site design during the development review process by giving careful
attention to building scale, mass and placement, architecture, materials, landscaping, and related design
considerations, including screening of equipment and loading areas. Policy 2-18, Single-Family Residential
Design, requires the City to preserve the character of residential neighborhoods by requiring new
development to be compatible with the existing neighborhood. Policy 2-21, Context of Streetscape
Landscaping, requires the City to, in public and private landscaping projects subject to City review, select
landscaping designs that reflect the development context. Policy 2-47, Hillside Development Standards,
requires the City to establish building and development standards for the hillsides that ensure hillside
protection. Policy 2-48, Previously Designated Very Low Density Semi-Rural 5-Acre, calls for the City to
allow certain hillside properties to develop using a previous General Plan Designation. Policy 2-51, Rural
Improvement Standards in Hillside Areas, calls for the City to require rural improvement standards in
hillside areas to preserve the rural character of the hillsides. Policy 2-52, Views for Public Facilities, requires
the City to design and layout public facilities, particularly public open spaces, so they include views of the
foothills or other nearby natural features, and plan hillside developments to minimize visual and other
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impacts on adjacent public open space. Policy 2-66, Historic Sites, requires the City to have projects on
Historic Sites meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standard for Treatment of Historic Properties with
Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, and Restoring Historic Buildings and provide a plaque, reader
board and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the historic significance of the resource(s).
Under this policy the plaque must include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written
description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the information.
Additionally, this policy requires that for public and quasi-public sites, the City will coordinate with the
property owner to allow public access of the historical site to foster public awareness and provide
educational opportunities. For privately-owned sites, property owners should be encouraged, but not
required, to provide access to the public. Policy 2-67, Commemorative Sites, calls for the City to require
projects on Commemorative Sites to provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tool on the
site to explain the historic significance of the resource. The plaque shall include the city seal, name of
resource, date it was built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the
public can view the information. Additionally, for public and quasi-public sites, this policy calls for the City
to coordinate with property owners to allow public access to the historical site to foster public awareness
and provide educational opportunities. For privately-owned sites, property owners should be encouraged,
but not required, to provide access to the public. Policy 2-68, Community Landmarks, calls for the City to
require Projects on Landmark Sites to provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tools on the
site to explain the historic significance of the resource. Under this policy the plaque must include the city
seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a
location where the public can view the information. Policy 2-69, Historic Mention/Interest Sites, requires
the City to encourage agencies that have jurisdiction over the historical resource to encourage rehabilitation
of the resource and provide public access to foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities.
These are sites outside the City’s jurisdictions, but have contributed to the City’s historic past. Policy 2-70,
Incentives for Preservation of Historic Resources, says that the City should utilize a variety of techniques to
serve as incentives toward fostering the preservation and rehabilitation of Historic Sites including: allowing
flexible interpretation of zoning ordinance not essential to public health and safety (this could include
flexibility as to use, parking requirements and/or setback requirements); using the California Building Code
for rehabilitation of historic structures; tax rebates (Mills Act or Local tax rebates); financial incentives such
as grants/loans to assist rehabilitation efforts. Policy 2-71, Recognizing Historical Resources, requires the
City to maintain an inventory of historically significant structures and periodically updated it in order to
promote awareness of these community resources. Policy 2-74, Heritage Trees, requires the City to protect
and maintain heritage trees in a healthy state. Policy 2-88, Park Design, requires the City to design parks to
utilize the natural features and topography of the site and to keep long-term maintenance costs low.
Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-9, Development near Sensitive Areas,
requires the City to encourage the clustering of new development away from sensitive areas such as riparian
corridors, wildlife habitat and corridors, public open space preserves and ridgelines. New developments in
these areas must have a harmonious landscaping plans approved prior to development.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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AES-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not substantially damage
scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings,
and historic buildings, within a state scenic highway.
The segment of I-280 is not an officially designated State Scenic Highway, but is considered to be an eligible
State Scenic Highway. Future development in the Homestead, North Vallco Park, North De Anza, and Heart
of the City Special Areas and Housing Element Site 6 (The Villages Apartments) would be within the
viewshed of I-280. Future development in these areas would be similar to the existing conditions at these
locations, including existing building height limits. These are shown on Figure 4.1-1 in Chapter 4.1,
Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR. As described below, these major mixed-use Special Areas are currently
developed and the proposed land use, zoning and development standards changes would not represent a
substantial reimagining of the character in these areas.
Homestead Special Area
North De Anza Gateway /Study Area 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire)
Study Area 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire) is coterminous with the North De Anza Gateway and is
located at the northwest corner of the North De Anza Boulevard and I-280 intersection. Under this
Alternative, future development would retain a hotel and would include a new 250-room hotel and
conference facility at the Goodyear Tire property. The General Plan designation and Zoning designation
would remain unchanged, with the exception of the Goodyear Tire property, which would change to P(CG)
to be consistent with the Cupertino Inn property. The maximum height would remain 45 feet at this
location.
As described above in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR,
this Study Area is proximate to existing large-scale residential developments and large format retail
buildings and parking lots. Therefore, redevelopment or expansion of existing commercial and hotel uses
would not represent a substantial change in visual character. Therefore, while future development in this
Study Area could result in greater intensity, with respect to damaging or obstructing a view of a scenic
resource from the I-280 viewshed, the foreground views would continue to be of the built urban
environment and the far-distant views to the Santa Cruz Mountains would remain; thus, impacts would be
less than significant.
Study Area 3 (PG&E) and Study Area 4 (Mirapath)
Given the Study Area 3 (PG&E) and Study Area 4 (Mirapath) are adjacent properties, in the case of
complete redevelopment, it is intended that both properties would be master planned in order to ensure
cohesive development. Under Land Use Alternative A, the Study Areas land use designation and zoning
would be amended to support a retail store/center in the future use. The maximum height would remain 45
feet which would not result in substantially taller development as the existing building heights are 1 to 2
stories. Given these Study Areas are generally surrounded by single-family residential, a commercial strip
mall, and townhomes, as described above in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, of Chapter 4.1,
Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR, with respect to damaging or obstructing a view of a scenic resource from a
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scenic highway, the foreground views would continue to be of the built urban environment and the far-
distant views to the Santa Cruz Mountains would not be obstructed; thus, impacts would be less than
significant.
Stelling Gateway
The Stelling Gateway is located in the western end of the Homestead Special Area. Under Land Use
Alternative A building heights would remain 30 feet west of Stelling Road and 45 feet east of Stelling Road.
Under Land Use Alternative A, the permitted density would remain at 35 dwelling units per acre for the
east side of Stelling Road and 15 dwelling units per acre on the west of Stelling Road. These amendments
would not result in substantially taller development given the location is surrounded by 1- to 2-story
developments as described in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, of Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics. No
residential uses would be allowed on the west of the Stelling Road neighborhood. Therefore, while
residential uses on the east side in this area would represent a new use, with respect to damaging or
obstructing a view of a scenic resource from the I-280 viewshed, the foreground views would continue to
be of the built urban environment and the far-distant views to the Santa Cruz Mountains would remain;
thus, impacts would be less than significant.
North Vallco Special Area
North Vallco Gateway/Study Area 5 (Cupertino Village)
The North Vallco Special Area includes the North Vallco Gateway, and Study Area 5 (Cupertino Village).
Only a portion of Study Area 5 is within this Gateway’s boundary. Under Land Use Alternative A, the North
Vallco Park Special Area would continue to be a predominantly office, hotel, and residential area, with a
series of low- to mid-rise neighborhood mixed-use centers.
There are no proposed changes to the current General Plan land use designation for this Study Area and
Gateway. The proposed density in this Gateway and Study Area would be 25 dwelling units per acre.
Maximum building heights would remain 60 feet.
Currently, the Study Area and Gateway include a prevalent surface parking lot, specialty retail stores,
restaurants, professional offices, and financial services, and The Hamptons apartment complex is currently
occupied with a 342-unit multi-family housing development and surface parking lots. The location is also
surrounded by a 4-story hotel and residential development, including both 3-story, multi-family residential
and single-family houses as described in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of
this Draft EIR.
While these represent greater intensity, given the surrounding land uses, and the nearby projects under
construction, including the Apple Campus 2 project site, two retail pads, and a 2-story parking structure,
new development at this Study Area and Gateway, would not damage or obstruct a view of a scenic
resource from the I-280 viewshed. Therefore, impacts to views of scenic resource from the I-280 viewing
corridor would be less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-12 JUNE 18, 2014
Heart of the City Special Area
South Vallco Park East and West Gateways/Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping
District)
The South Vallco Park Gateway West and South Vallco Gateway East include Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping
District).These Project Component locations are bounded by I-280 to the north.
This Study Area is considered the city’s regional shopping district and consist of many retail stores and
restaurants. As described in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, of Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft
EIR, the Vallco Shopping District is surrounded with commercial and industrial uses, as well as some
residential neighborhoods further away from Stevens Creek Boulevard. Future development would
represent similar buildings heights, ranging from 45 to 60 feet with a retail component. Given the existing
site conditions and the surrounding area has large scale retail and industrial uses, future development on this
site would not damage or obstruct a view of a scenic resource from the I-280 viewshed. Therefore, impacts
to views of scenic resources from the I-280 viewing corridor would be less than significant.
North De Anza Special Area
Under Land Use Alternative A, the North De Anza Corridor would remain an office area consisting of mid-
rise buildings. This Special Area is a major north/south connector that includes many office and commercial
uses. Future development permitted in this Special Area would result in increased office, commercial, and
increased residential units, with no changes to the current permitted density and height limits. Because this
Special Area is currently comprised of mid-rise office buildings, Land Use Alternative A would not represent
a substantial change in the visual character. Accordingly, potential future development would not damage a
scenic resource or obstruct a view of a scenic resource from the I-280 viewshed; thus, and impacts would be
less than significant.
Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property)
Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property), which was built on in 1975, currently has light industrial
(research and office) uses with a large amount of surface parking. Under Land Use Alternative A, there
would be no changes to the designation, zoning, density, or building height on this housing Site. Therefore,
future development would not damage or obstruct a view of a scenic resource from the I-280 viewshed. The
foreground views would continue to be of the built urban environment and the far-distant views to the Santa
Cruz Mountains would remain; thus, impacts would be less than significant.
Housing Element Site 6 (The Villages Apartments)
Housing Element Site 6 (The Villages Apartments) is not located within a Major Mixed-Use Special Area;
however, it is situated on the south side of I-280 south of the Homestead Special Area and west of the North
De Anza Special Area and Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property). Under Land Use Alternative A,
there would be no changes to the current General Plan land use designation, zoning, density, or building
height and impacts to the I-280 viewshed would be less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-13
Summary
As described above, the land use or intensity changes do not represent a substantial reimagining of the
character of the Project Component locations in the I-280 viewshed given the existing viewshed within this
area is largely urbanized and built out. New uses in the I-280 viewshed, as result of this Alternative, would
be dispersed within the designated Major Mixed-Use Special Areas and would not fully obstruct views of
far-field scenic resources (e.g. Santa Cruz Mountains) from I-280.
As discussed under impact AES 1, above, Policies 2-23 through 2-33 are analyzed as an integral, inseparable
component of Land Use Alternative A, and Policies 2-15, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, 2-82, 2-88, and 7-4 under Land
Use Alternative A would not cause adverse physical changes that could create aesthetic impacts in
Cupertino. Individual developments would continue to be subject to General Plan policies and Municipal
Code provisions related to aesthetics, including potential project-level design review requirements.
Moreover, certain policy changes would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new and existing
developments. Therefore, the policy amendments under Land Use Alternative A would not result in impacts
under this threshold of significance.
Furthermore, potential future development would, if necessary, be subject to the Architectural and Site
Review process, in accordance with Section 19.168 of the Zoning Ordinance. Future development would
also would be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in the Heart of the City Specific Plan and
the Vallco Master Plan or Conceptual Plans as described in Section 4.1.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in
Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR and the General Plan policies outlined in impact discussion AES-1,
that limit the height and bulk of buildings. Accordingly, impacts related to scenic resources in the I-280
viewshed would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not substantially degrade
the existing visual character or quality of the Site and its surroundings.
The Project Component locations are concentrated on areas either already developed and/or underutilized,
and/or in close proximity to existing residential and residential-serving development. Future building form
and massing may be greater than existing conditions, but would not necessarily degrade the existing
surrounding character.
Project implementation would allow continued development and redevelopment throughout the city. As
discussed above, future development in the Homestead Special Area, North Vallco Special Area, the North
De Anza Special Area and the South Vallco West Gateway and South Vallco West Gateway in the Heart of the
City Special Area, and Housing Element Site 6 (The Villages Apartments) would not result in a substantial
change to the existing visual character of the Site or its surroundings. Potential impacts to visual character
from future development on the remaining Project Component locations are discussed below.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-14 JUNE 18, 2014
Heart of the City Special Area
Stevens Creek and 85 Gateway/Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping
Center)
The Stevens Creek and 85 Gateway is coterminous Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)
located on the north side of Stevens Creek Boulevard between State Route 85 (SR 85) and Mary Avenue.
Under this Alternative, there would be no changes to the General Plan land use designation; however, the
Zoning designation would be amended to Planned Development with General Commercial, and Residential
(P(CG, Res)) to allow for future mixed-use development including residential uses. Under this Alternative,
the permitted density would remain at 25 dwelling units per acre and building heights would remain at 45
feet. Given this Project Component location is within the existing 1-story Oaks Shopping Center, currently
has entitlements for a mixed-use office/commercial building and a hotel which expire in September 2014,
and is surrounded by urban land uses and SR 85 to the west, future development permitted under this
Alternative would not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts
would be less than significant.
North Crossroads Node/Study Area 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center)/Housing
Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza)
The North Crossroads Node includes Study Area 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center) and Housing Element Site
14 (Marina Plaza), located along Stevens Creek Boulevard; a major commercial corridor that currently
houses major retailers in big-box buildings. A new 16,000 square-foot retail project (Saich Way Station) is
also scheduled for construction in Spring/Summer 2014. Other properties near these Project Component
locations include large, 1- to 2-story buildings. There is no proposed change to density and building heights
at this location.
Under this Alternative, there would be no changes to the General Plan land use designation, zoning, density,
or building height at Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza).
Because the area is largely built out and within one of the major commercial areas in the city, and is
surrounded by big-box development with a dense urban character, new development on these Sites would
not degrade the visual character of the Site or the area; thus, impacts would be less than significant.
City Center Node/Study Area 2 (City Center)
The City Center Node includes Study Area 2 (City Center). The proposed density at this Node would
remain 25 dwelling units per acre and the maximum height would remain 45 feet.
Given this Project Component location is currently developed with mixed-use development offering
residential, office, and commercial space, and is surrounded by higher density uses ranging from 1- to 8-
story buildings, future development permitted under this Alternative would not adversely impact the visual
character of the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-15
Other Housing Element Sites
Under this Alternative there would be no changes to the General Plan land use designation, zoning, density,
or height limit at Housing Element Sites 1 (Shan Restaurant), 2 (Arya/Scandinavian Design), 3 (United
Furniture/East of East Estates Drive), 4 (Barry Swenson), 5 (Glenbrook Apartments), 13 (Loree Shopping
Center) and 19 (Cypress Building Association & Hall Property); thus impacts from future development
permitted under this Alternative would not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its
surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
South De Anza Special Area
Under this Alternative, the South De Anza Special Area would remain a general commercial area south of
Stevens Creek Boulevard. This Special Area would result in increased office and commercial allocations, as
well as an increase in the density from 5 to 15 dwelling units per acre to 25 dwelling units per acre, but no
height increases would occur and the land uses would remain the same. Thus, future development permitted
under this Alternative would not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus
impacts would be less than significant.
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds & Granite Rock)
Under this Alternative, there would be no changes to the General Plan land use designation. The permitted
density would remain at 25 dwelling units per acre, no height increases would occur, and the land uses
would generally remain the same; thus, future development permitted under this Alternative would not
adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than
significant.
Housing Element Site 8 (Bateh Bros.)
Under this Alternative, there would be no changes to the General Plan land use designation to allow for
residential uses, and density would be increased to 35 dwelling units per acre, but no height increases would
occur and the land uses would remain the same; thus, future development permitted under this Alternative
would not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less
than significant.
Special Centers/Other Areas
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood
Under this Alternative, the Monta Vista Village Neighborhood would remain at 12 dwelling units per acre,
and decrease the amount of residential units permitted in this neighborhood by four (4). Additional
development allocation in this Neighborhood includes an increase of 5,231 square feet for office, and 9,413
square feet (3,629 square feet net increase) for commercial uses. The lots in Monta Vista Village that are
identified as part of the General Plan Conformance sites will go up from P(Res 4.4 - 7.7) to P(Res 10-15);
however, this is because they are currently developed at this density and no new development potential will
occur on these lots as a result of this change. These lots are in the Monta Vista Village. There are no
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-16 JUNE 18, 2014
proposed General Plan land use designations or Zoning designation changes for this area under this
Alternative. Because the land uses would remain the same and there would be no increase in building height,
future development permitted under this Alternative would not adversely impact the visual character of the
Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
Bubb Road Special Area
Under this Alternative, the Bubb Road Special Area would remain at 20 dwelling units per acre, but no new
residential units would be permitted in this area because the existing 94-unit residential allocation would be
allocated to other areas of the city more appropriate for residential development.2 Additional development
allocation in this Special Area includes 15,000 square feet for office uses. There are no proposed General
Plan land use designations or Zoning designation changes for this Employment Center under this
Alternative. Because the land uses would remain the same and there would be no increase in building height,
future development permitted under this Alternative would not adversely impact the visual character of the
Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
Other Non-Residential/ Mixed-Use Special Areas
Under this Alternative, a maximum of 5,000 square feet of office uses and 12,000 square feet of commercial
uses would be permitted throughout the seven locations that are comprised of existing mixed-use office and
commercial properties distributed throughout the city as discussed under Section 4.1.1.2, Existing
Conditions, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR. Furthermore, a total of 70 residential units would
be permitted. Because the land uses would remain the same and there would be no increase in building
height, future development permitted under this Alternative would not adversely impact the visual
character of the site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
Other Neighborhoods
There are no proposed General Plan land use designations or Zoning designation changes for the Other
Neighborhoods under this Alternative. Because the land uses would remain the same and there would be no
increase in building height, future development permitted under this Alternative would not adversely
impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites
Under this Alternative, the City-identified Sites, shown on Figure 3-40, in Chapter 3, Project Description,
of this Draft EIR, that represent locations where there are inconsistencies between existing land use and the
General Plan land use designation and/or Zoning designation for the location, would not result in changes
2 As shown in Table 3-2, the remaining total residential allocation is 479 units throughout the Special Centers and the project proposes
521 units for a difference of 42 additional residential units in the Special Centers under the proposed Project. This results from 50 proposed
unit in the Other Commercial area plus 27 proposed units in the Monta Vista Village Neighborhood area plus 59 proposed units in the Other
Neighborhood area for a total of 136 proposed units; 136 proposed units minus the 94 currently permitted in the Bubb Road area equals 42
new units in the Special Centers.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-17
to the character of the existing Site or its surroundings. Under this Alternative, the General Plan or the
Zoning Ordinance and/or Maps will be amended to bring consistency between the existing use and the
General Plan land use and/or Zoning for the location. Thus, no impact would occur.
Summary
Given the existing commercial, industrial, and residential uses surrounding Project Component locations,
future developments would not substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the Site and
their surroundings.
As discussed under Impact AES-1, above, Policies 2-23 through 2-33 are analyzed as an integral, inseparable
component of the proposed Project, and amended policies 2-15, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, 2-82, 2-88, and 5-48
under the proposed Project would not cause adverse physical changes that could create aesthetic impacts in
Cupertino. Individual developments would continue to be subject to General Plan policies and Municipal
Code provisions related to aesthetics, including potential project-level design review requirements.
Moreover, certain policy changes would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new and existing
developments. Therefore the policy amendments under the proposed Project would not result in impacts
under this threshold of significance.
Furthermore, potential future development would, if necessary, be subject to the Architectural and Site
Review process, in accordance with Section 19.168 of the Zoning Ordinance. Future development would
also would be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in the Heart of the City Specific Plan, the
Vallco Master Plan, and the Monta Vista Design Guidelines and Conceptual Plans as described in Section
4.1.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR, and the General Plan policies
outlined in impact discussion AES-1, would ensure that the bulk, mass, height, and architectural character of
new development are compatible with surrounding uses.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not create a new source
of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime
views in the area.
Nighttime illumination and glare impacts are the effects of a project’s exterior lighting upon adjoining uses
and areas. Light and glare impacts are determined through a comparison of the existing light sources with
the proposed lighting plan or policies.
Currently, the Project Study Area contains many existing sources of nighttime illumination. These include
street and parking area lights, security lighting, and exterior lighting on existing residential, commercial,
and institutional buildings. Additional onsite light and glare is caused by surrounding land uses and traffic on
SR 85 and I-280.
As discussed under impact AES 1, above, Policies 2-23 through 2-33 are analyzed as an integral, inseparable
component of Land Use Alternative A, and amended policies 2-15, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, 2-82, 2-88, and 7-4
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-18 JUNE 18, 2014
under Land Use Alternative A would not cause adverse physical changes that could create aesthetic impacts
in Cupertino. Individual developments would continue to be subject to General Plan policies and Municipal
Code provisions related to aesthetics, including potential project-level design review requirements.
Moreover, certain policy changes would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new and existing
developments. Therefore, the policy amendments under Land Use Alternative A would not result in impacts
under this threshold of significance.
The Land Use Alternative A would modify land uses, zoning, and density, which in turn would intensify
related lighting sources. In addition to new building, security, and lighting for parking areas, buildout of the
Project Study Area would also include lighting aimed at properly illuminating the Project Component
locations. Because the Land Use Alternative A allows additional development throughout the Project Study
Area, its implementation would likely result in some larger buildings with more exterior glazing (i.e.
windows and doors) that could result in new sources of glare. Despite the new and expanded sources of
nighttime illumination and glare, the Land Use Alternative A is not expected to generate a substantial
increase in light and glare.
The General Plan policies and Municipal Code provisions that ensure new land uses do not generate
excessive light levels. The City’s General Plan policies require reduce light and glare spillover from future
development to surrounding land uses by buffering new development with landscaping and trees. The
preservation of mature trees with substantial tree canopies would diffuse the overall amount of light
generated by new development and glare generated by windows of multistory buildings. Furthermore,
because the Project Component locations and surrounding area are largely developed, the lighting associated
with the Land Use Alternative A would not substantially increase nighttime light and glare within the Project
Study Area or its surroundings. Therefore, impacts relating to light and glare would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to aesthetics.
As discussed in Chapter 4, Environmental Evaluation, of this Draft EIR, this EIR takes into account growth
projected by this Alternative within the Cupertino city boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in
combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the surrounding
region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG). The cumulative setting for visual
impacts includes potential future development under the proposed General Pan combined with effects of
development on lands adjacent to the city within Los Altos and Sunnyvale to the north, Santa Clara and San
Jose to the east, and Saratoga to the south, and the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County to the west
and south.
Significant impacts, including those associated with scenic resources, visual character, and increased light
and glare would generally be site-specific and would not contribute to cumulative impacts after
implementation of the General Plan policies and the provisions stated in the Municipal Code.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-19
Because of the developed nature of the Project Study Area, future development under the General Plan
Amendment, Housing Element Update, and associated Rezoning, in combination with other new
development, would not negatively impact the visual character of the City. Furthermore, Land Use
Alternative A would not constitute a significant adverse impact because redevelopment of the area is also
anticipated in the current specific plans and the City’s General Plan policies.
As discussed under Impact AES-1, above, Policies 2-23 through 2-33 are analyzed as an integral, inseparable
component of Land Use Alternative A, and Policies 2-15, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, 2-82, 2-88, and 7-4 under the
Land Use Alternative A would not cause adverse physical changes that could create aesthetic impacts in
Cupertino. Individual developments would continue to be subject to General Plan policies and Municipal
Code provisions related to aesthetics, including potential project-level design review requirements.
Moreover, certain policy changes would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new and existing
developments. Therefore, the policy amendments under the Land Use Alternative A would not result in
cumulative impacts to aesthetics.
Moreover, as part of the approval process, potential new development under the Land Use Alternative A
would be subject to environmental review and architectural and site design review, to ensure that the
development is aesthetically pleasing and compatible with adjoining land uses. With the development review
mechanisms in place, approved future development under the Land Use Alternative A is not anticipated to
create substantial impacts to visual resources. Therefore, this Alternative would result in a cumulatively less-
than-significant contribution to aesthetic impacts.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AIR QUALITY 5.2.7.2
AQ-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would conflict with or obstruct
implementation of the applicable air quality plan.
2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan
The current AQMP is the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. The primary goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air
Plan are to attain the State and Federal AAQS, reduce population exposure and protect public health in the
Bay Area, and reduce GHG emissions and protect the climate. BAAQMD considers the Plan consistent with
the AQMP in accordance with the following:
Attain Air Quality Standards
BAAQMD’s 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan strategy is based on regional population and employment
projections within the Bay Area compiled by ABAG. Demographic trends incorporated into the Plan Bay
Area determine vehicle miles traveled (VMT) within the Bay Area, which BAAQMD utilizes to forecast
future air quality trends. The San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin (SFBAAB) is designated as a nonattainment
area for Ozone (O3), fine inhalable particulate matter (PM2.5), and coarse inhalable particulate matter
(PM10) (State ambient air quality standards (AAQS) only).
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-20 JUNE 18, 2014
As discussed in Chapter 4.11, Population and Housing, of this Draft EIR, the growth projections for the
City of Cupertino would exceed the employment projections identified by ABAG. ABAG forecasts the
population in Cupertino could grow to 71,700 by 2040.3 The buildout projections resulting from future
development under Land Use Alternative A estimates that the residential population could grow to 63,873
by 2040. Therefore, additional residential population resulting from implementation of Land Use Alternative
A would not exceed regional projections (7,827 fewer residents). With respect to employment, ABAG
forecasts 33,260 employees in the City of Cupertino in 2040.4 Buildout of Land Use Alternative A would
not exceed the regional projections (667 fewer employees). Growth under Land Use Alternative A would
come incrementally over approximately 26 years and would be guided by a policy framework that is
generally consistent with many of the principal goals and objectives established in regional planning
initiatives for the Bay Area.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure coordination with
regional agencies on regional planning initiatives. Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy 5-5,
Air Pollution Effects of New Development, would require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of
new development projects and the impacts affecting new development. Supporting Strategy 3 would require
the City to assess the potential for air pollution effects of future land use and transportation planning, to
ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of improving air quality.
The Circulation Element also includes policies regarding coordination with regional transportation planning
agencies. Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, would ensure that the City
actively participate in developing regional approaches to meeting the transportation needs of the residents
of the Santa Clara Valley. Subsequently, growth under Land Use Alternative A would be consistent with the
regional planning objectives established for the Bay Area.
Therefore, emissions within the City of Cupertino are included in Bay Area Air Quality Management
District (BAAQMD)’s projections, and future development under Land Use Alternative A through horizon
year 2040 would not hinder BAAQMD’s ability to attain the California or National AAQS. Accordingly,
impacts would be less than significant.
Reduce Population Exposure and Protect Public Health
The City of Cupertino is already largely developed. Future growth under Land Use Alternative A would be
accommodated through redevelopment of infill sites. As identified in the discussion of community risk and
hazards (see Impact AQ-4 below), new sensitive land uses could be proximate to major sources of Toxic Air
Contaminants (TACs), and new industrial/commercial land uses could generate an increase in TACs.
Adherence to BAAQMD regulations would ensure new sources of TACs do not expose populations to
significant health risk; however, siting of land uses proximate to major sources of air pollution is outside the
control of BAAQMD. These impacts are addressed under Impact AQ-4, below. Implementation of current
3 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014, Plan Bay Area Projections 2013.
4 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014, Plan Bay Area Projections 2013.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-21
and amended General Plan policies, and strategies, and mitigation to reduce community risk and hazards
listed in AQ-4 below would ensure these impacts are less than significant.
Reduce GHG Emissions and Protect the Climate
The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions impacts of Land Use Alternative A are discussed in Chapter 4.6,
Greenhouse Gas Emissions, of this Draft EIR. Goals and policies have been incorporated within Land Use
Alternative A, as identified in Chapter 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, of this Draft EIR, to reduce Vehicle
Miles Traveled (VMT) and associated GHG emissions. In addition, the City of Cupertino is also preparing a
Climate Action Plan (CAP) to reduce community-wide GHG emissions. The City’s CAP would identify
GHG reduction measures for community-wide operations.
The current and amended General Plan policies and strategies would also reduce GHG emissions, as
described in more detail in Chapter 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, of this Draft EIR. Future development
under this Alternative would be required to adhere to statewide measures that have been adopted to achieve
the GHG reduction targets of Assembly Bill 32. In addition, this Alternative is consistent with regional
strategies for infill development identified by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)/ABAG
in the Plan Bay Area. Consequently, Land Use Alternative A is consistent with the goals of the 2010 Bay Area
Clean Air Plan to reduce GHG emissions and protect the climate. As identified above, Land Use Alternative
A would support the goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. New policies would be introduced as part
of Land Use Alternative A to minimize impacts. Impacts would be less than significant.
Include Applicable Control Measures from the AQMP
Table 4.2-6, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, identifies the control measures included in the
2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan, and, as shown, implementation of Land Use Alternative A goals, policies, and
actions in Table 4.2-6 would ensure that Land Use Alternative A would be consistent with the 2010 Bay Area
Clean Air Plan and that the impacts due to inconsistency would be less than significant.
Disrupt or Hinder Implementation of Any AQMP Control Measures
Table 5.2-2 identifies the control measures included in the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. As identified in the
table, Land Use Alternative A would not hinder BAAQMD from implementing the control measures in the
2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. Impacts are less than significant.
GE
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CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
2
2
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
Ar
e
a
So
u
r
c
e
s
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
SS
M
1 – Me
t
a
l
Me
l
t
i
n
g
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
SS
M
2 – Di
g
i
t
a
l
Pr
i
n
t
i
n
g
SS
M
3 – Li
v
e
s
t
o
c
k
Wa
s
t
e
SS
M
4 – Na
t
u
r
a
l
Ga
s
Pr
o
c
e
s
s
i
n
g
an
d
Di
s
t
r
i
b
u
t
i
o
n
SS
M
5 – Va
c
u
u
m
Tr
u
c
k
s
SS
M
6 – Ge
n
e
r
a
l
Pa
r
t
i
c
u
l
a
t
e
Ma
t
t
e
r
We
i
g
h
t
Ra
t
e
Li
m
i
t
a
t
i
o
n
s
SS
M
7 – Op
e
n
Bu
r
n
i
n
g
SS
M
8 – Co
l
e
Ca
l
c
i
n
i
n
g
SS
M
9 – Ce
m
e
n
t
Ki
l
n
s
SS
M
10
– Re
f
i
n
e
r
y
Bo
i
l
e
r
s
an
d
He
a
t
e
r
s
SS
M
11
– Re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
Fa
n
Ty
p
e
Fu
r
n
a
c
e
s
SS
M
12
– Sp
a
c
e
He
a
t
i
n
g
SS
M
13
– Dr
y
e
r
s
,
Ov
e
n
s
,
Ki
l
n
s
SS
M
14
– Gl
a
s
s
Fu
r
n
a
c
e
s
SS
M
15
– Gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
Ga
s
e
s
in
Pe
r
m
i
t
t
i
n
g
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
SS
M
16
– Re
v
i
s
e
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
2,
Ru
l
e
2:
Ne
w
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
SS
M
17
– Re
v
i
s
e
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
2,
Ru
l
e
5 Ne
w
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
fo
r
Ai
r
To
x
i
c
s
SS
M
18
– Re
v
i
s
e
Ai
r
To
x
i
c
s
“H
o
t
Sp
o
t
”
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
St
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ar
e
so
u
r
c
e
s
regulated directly by
BA
A
Q
M
D
.
To
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
control measures, BAAQMD
ad
o
p
t
s
/
r
e
v
i
s
e
s
ru
l
e
s
or
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
control measures and reduce
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
s
.
Be
c
a
u
s
e
BAAQMD is the implementing
ag
e
n
c
y
,
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
so
u
r
c
e
s
of
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
sources in the City would
be
re
q
u
i
r
e
d
to
co
m
p
l
y
wi
t
h
th
e
s
e
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
in
the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air
Pl
a
n
.
Mo
b
i
l
e
So
u
r
c
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
MS
M
A‐1 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Cl
e
a
n
,
fu
e
l
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Li
g
h
t
an
d
Me
d
i
u
m
‐Du
t
y
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
MS
M
A‐2 – Ze
r
o
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
an
d
Pl
u
g
‐in
Hy
b
r
i
d
s
MS
M
A‐3 – Gr
e
e
n
Fl
e
e
t
s
(L
i
g
h
t
Me
d
i
u
m
an
d
He
a
v
y
‐Du
t
y
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
)
MS
M
A‐4 – Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
or
Re
p
a
i
r
of
Hi
g
h
Em
i
t
t
i
n
g
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
MS
M
B‐1 – HD
V
Fl
e
e
t
Mo
d
e
r
n
i
z
a
t
i
o
n
MS
M
B‐2 – Lo
w
NO
x
Re
t
r
o
f
i
t
s
fo
r
In
‐Us
e
En
g
i
n
e
s
MS
M
B‐3 – Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Dr
i
v
e
Tr
a
i
n
s
MS
M
C‐1 – Co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
an
d
Fa
r
m
i
n
g
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
MS
M
C‐2 – La
w
n
an
d
Ga
r
d
e
n
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
MS
M
C‐3 – Re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Ve
s
s
e
l
s
Mo
b
i
l
e
So
u
r
c
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
re
d
u
c
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
by accelerating the
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
of
ol
d
e
r
,
di
r
t
i
e
r
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
an
d
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
,
through programs such as the
BA
A
Q
M
D
’
s
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
Bu
y
‐Ba
c
k
an
d
Sm
o
k
i
n
g
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
,
and promoting
ad
v
a
n
c
e
d
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
y
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
th
a
t
re
d
u
c
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
The implementation of these
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
re
l
y
he
a
v
i
l
y
up
o
n
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
,
su
c
h
as the Carl Moyer Program
an
d
th
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Fu
n
d
fo
r
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
,
to
ac
h
i
e
v
e
voluntary emission reductions
in
ad
v
a
n
c
e
of
,
or
in
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
to
,
CA
R
B
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
CA
R
B
has new regulations that
re
q
u
i
r
e
th
e
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
or
re
t
r
o
f
i
t
of
on
‐ro
a
d
tr
u
c
k
s
,
construction equipment, and
ot
h
e
r
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
th
a
t
is
di
e
s
e
l
po
w
e
r
e
d
.
La
n
d
Use Alternative A would not
hi
n
d
e
r
th
e
ab
i
l
i
t
y
of
BA
A
Q
M
D
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
s
e
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
programs.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
TC
M
A‐1 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Lo
c
a
l
an
d
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Ra
i
l
Se
r
v
i
c
e
TC
M
A‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Lo
c
a
l
an
d
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Ra
i
l
Se
r
v
i
c
e
TC
M
B‐1 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Fr
e
e
w
a
y
Pe
r
f
o
r
m
a
n
c
e
In
i
t
i
a
t
i
v
e
TC
M
B‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
Us
e
TC
M
B‐3 – Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Ex
p
r
e
s
s
La
n
d
Ne
t
w
o
r
k
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
(T
C
M
)
ar
e
st
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
to reduce vehicle trips,
ve
h
i
c
l
e
us
e
,
VM
T
,
ve
h
i
c
l
e
id
l
i
n
g
,
or
tr
a
f
f
i
c
co
n
g
e
s
t
i
o
n
fo
r
the purpose of reducing
mo
t
o
r
ve
h
i
c
l
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
Wh
i
l
e
mo
s
t
of
th
e
TC
M
s
ar
e
implemented at the regional
le
v
e
l
—
t
h
a
t
is
,
by
th
e
MT
C
or
Ca
l
t
r
a
n
s
—
t
h
e
r
e
ar
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
for which the 2010 Bay
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
re
l
i
e
s
up
o
n
lo
c
a
l
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
to
as
s
i
s
t
with implementation.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-23
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
TC
M
B‐4 – Go
o
d
s
Mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
C‐1 – Su
p
p
o
r
t
Vo
l
u
n
t
a
r
y
Em
p
l
o
y
e
r
‐Ba
s
e
d
Tr
i
p
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
TC
M
C‐2 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Sa
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
to
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
an
d
Sa
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
to
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
TC
M
C‐3 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Ri
d
e
s
h
a
r
e
Se
r
v
i
c
e
an
d
In
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
TC
M
C‐4 – Co
n
d
u
c
t
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ou
t
r
e
a
c
h
an
d
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
TC
M
C‐5 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Sm
a
r
t
Dr
i
v
i
n
g
/
S
p
e
e
d
Mo
d
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
TC
M
D‐1 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Ac
c
e
s
s
an
d
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
TC
M
D‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ac
c
e
s
s
an
d
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
TC
M
D‐3 – Su
p
p
o
r
t
Lo
c
a
l
La
n
d
Us
e
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
E‐1 – Va
l
u
e
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
E‐2 Pa
r
k
i
n
g
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
an
d
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
TC
M
E‐3 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
Re
f
o
r
m
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A in
c
l
u
d
e
s
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
related to transportation and
la
n
d
us
e
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
as
s
i
s
t
BA
A
Q
M
D
in
me
e
t
i
n
g
th
e
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
goals of the 2010 Bay
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
:
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐1:
Fo
c
u
s
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
in
Mi
x
e
d
‐Us
e
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Areas. In the mixed‐use
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
(s
h
o
w
n
in
Fi
g
u
r
e
2‐B)
wh
e
r
e
of
f
i
c
e
,
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
and residential uses
ar
e
al
l
o
w
e
d
,
fo
c
u
s
hi
g
h
e
r
in
t
e
n
s
i
t
y
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
an
d
increased building heights
wh
e
r
e
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
in
de
s
i
g
n
a
t
e
d
co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
,
ga
t
e
w
a
y
s
,
and nodes.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐2:
Co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
Be
t
w
e
e
n
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
,
Em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
Centers and the
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
st
r
o
n
g
co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
be
t
w
e
e
n
th
e
mixed‐use Special Areas,
em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
ce
n
t
e
r
s
an
d
th
e
su
r
r
o
u
n
d
i
n
g
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
Co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
En
h
a
n
c
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
and bicycle connections
fr
o
m
th
e
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
an
d
em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
ce
n
t
e
r
s
to surrounding
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ac
c
e
s
s
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
paths through new and
re
d
e
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
to
en
h
a
n
c
e
pu
b
l
i
c
ac
c
e
s
s
to
and through the
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐19
:
Co
m
p
a
t
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
of
Lo
t
Si
z
e
s
.
En
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
zoning, subdivision and lot line
ad
j
u
s
t
m
e
n
t
re
q
u
e
s
t
s
re
l
a
t
e
d
to
lo
t
si
z
e
or
lo
t
de
s
i
g
n
consider the need to
pr
e
s
e
r
v
e
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
lo
t
pa
t
t
e
r
n
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Mi
n
i
m
u
m
Lo
t
Si
z
e
.
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
mi
n
i
m
u
m
lot size if the proposed new
lo
t
si
z
e
is
sm
a
l
l
e
r
th
a
n
an
d
no
t
co
m
p
a
t
i
b
l
e
wi
t
h
th
e
surrounding neighborhood.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Fl
a
g
Lo
t
s
.
Cr
e
a
t
e
fl
a
g
lo
t
s
in
pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
s
when they are the
on
l
y
re
a
s
o
n
a
b
l
e
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
th
a
t
in
t
e
g
r
a
t
e
s
wi
t
h
th
e
lot pattern in the
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐26
:
He
a
r
t
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
.
Cr
e
a
t
e
a positive and memorable
im
a
g
e
al
o
n
g
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bo
u
l
e
v
a
r
d
of
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
development; enhanced
ac
t
i
v
i
t
y
ga
t
e
w
a
y
s
an
d
no
d
e
s
;
an
d
sa
f
e
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
circulation and access for all
mo
d
e
s
of
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
He
a
r
t
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
Sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
Pl
a
n
.
Ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
th
e
Heart of the City Specific Plan
as
th
e
pr
i
m
a
r
y
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
to
o
l
fo
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
to
us
e
for this area.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Ca
l
m
i
n
g
.
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
op
t
i
o
n
s
on
St
e
v
e
n
s
Creek Boulevard to
im
p
r
o
v
e
th
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
by
pr
o
a
c
t
i
v
e
l
y
managing speed limits and
tr
a
f
f
i
c
si
g
n
a
l
sy
n
c
h
r
o
n
i
z
a
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐5:
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ac
c
e
s
s
.
Cr
e
a
t
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ac
c
e
s
s
between new
su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
s
an
d
sc
h
o
o
l
si
t
e
s
.
Re
v
i
e
w
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
circulation plans to
im
p
r
o
v
e
sa
f
e
t
y
an
d
ac
c
e
s
s
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
i
s
t
s
to school sites, including
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
2
4
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
co
m
p
l
e
t
i
n
g
ac
c
e
s
s
i
b
l
e
ne
t
w
o
r
k
of
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
an
d
pa
t
h
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐1:
Ci
t
y
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
o
n
in
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Planning. Participate
ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
in
de
v
e
l
o
p
i
n
g
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
ap
p
r
o
a
c
h
e
s
to
me
e
t
i
n
g
the transportation needs
of
th
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
.
Wo
r
k
cl
o
s
e
l
y
with neighboring
ju
r
i
s
d
i
c
t
i
o
n
s
an
d
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
re
s
p
o
n
s
i
b
l
e
fo
r
ro
a
d
w
a
y
s
,
transit facilities and transit
se
r
v
i
c
e
s
in
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
.
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
in regional
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
in
or
d
e
r
to
mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
ad
v
e
r
s
e
impacts on Cupertino’s
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
al
l
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
agencies to develop
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
t
wi
t
h
th
e
go
a
l
s
an
d
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
of
Cupertino’s General Plan.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
i
n
g
ci
t
i
e
s
to
ad
d
r
e
s
s
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
and land use
is
s
u
e
s
of
mu
t
u
a
l
in
t
e
r
e
s
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Jo
b
s
–
H
o
u
s
i
n
g
Ba
l
a
n
c
e
.
Mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
traffic impacts on Cupertino
by
su
p
p
o
r
t
i
n
g
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
ma
n
a
g
e
the jobs‐housing balance
th
r
o
u
g
h
o
u
t
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Co
u
n
t
y
an
d
th
e
Si
l
i
c
o
n
Va
l
l
e
y
,
including the Bay Area
re
g
i
o
n
’
s
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
an
d
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Transportation Plan.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
In
t
e
r
c
h
a
n
g
e
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
interchange
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
,
su
c
h
as
I‐28
0
wi
t
h
th
e
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
r
e
s
s
w
a
y
Stevens Creek
Bo
u
l
e
v
a
r
d
,
an
d
No
r
t
h
Wo
l
f
e
Ro
a
d
,
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the use of the freeway
an
d
re
d
u
c
e
th
e
us
e
of
lo
c
a
l
st
r
e
e
t
s
.
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Co
n
g
e
s
t
i
o
n
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
(C
M
P
)
.
Ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
participate in the
pr
e
p
a
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
CM
P
an
d
ot
h
e
r
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
ef
f
o
r
t
s
to control traffic congestion
an
d
li
m
i
t
ai
r
po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Im
p
a
c
t
An
a
l
y
s
i
s
(T
I
A
)
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
TI
A
reports that meet the
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Authority (VTA) for all
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
pr
o
j
e
c
t
e
d
to
ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
mo
r
e
th
a
n
10
0
trips in the morning or
af
t
e
r
n
o
o
n
pe
a
k
ho
u
r
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Mu
l
t
i
‐mo
d
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
En
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
connections are provided to
en
a
b
l
e
tr
a
v
e
l
e
r
s
to
tr
a
n
s
i
t
i
o
n
fr
o
m
on
e
mo
d
e
of
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
to another (e.g.
bi
c
y
c
l
e
to
bu
s
)
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Bu
s
an
d
Ra
p
i
d
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Se
r
v
i
c
e
.
Support the expansion of the
VT
A
’
s
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
bu
s
tr
a
n
s
i
t
sy
s
t
e
m
an
d
ex
t
e
n
s
i
o
n
of
bus and/or light rail rapid
tr
a
n
s
i
t
in
t
o
th
e
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
an
d
De
An
z
a
Co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
to fulfill the “spoke and
wh
e
e
l
”
tr
a
n
s
i
t
sy
s
t
e
m
de
s
i
g
n
e
d
to
se
r
v
e
al
l
of
Sa
n
t
a
Clara County. Specific actions
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
i
s
st
r
a
t
e
g
y
ar
e
:
o
Re
v
i
e
w
al
l
ri
g
h
t
‐of
‐wa
y
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
for potential
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-25
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
a
i
n
t
s
to
ra
p
i
d
tr
a
n
s
i
t
development.
o
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
hi
g
h
e
r
de
n
s
i
t
y
an
d
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
development in rapid transit
co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
an
d
en
s
u
r
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
ar
e
de
s
i
g
n
e
d
to enhance the use of
tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
o
Se
e
k
th
e
co
o
p
e
r
a
t
i
v
e
su
p
p
o
r
t
of
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
,
property owners and
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
in
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
ra
p
i
d
tr
a
n
s
i
t
ex
t
e
n
s
i
o
n
s
.
o
Ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
se
e
k
to
ha
v
e
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
re
p
r
e
s
e
n
t
West Valley cities and
ul
t
i
m
a
t
e
l
y
ch
a
i
r
th
e
VT
A
Bo
a
r
d
of
Di
r
e
c
t
o
r
s
to promote the above policy
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐3:
Re
d
u
c
e
d
Re
l
i
a
n
c
e
on
th
e
Us
e
of
Si
n
g
l
e
‐Occupant Vehicles .Promote a
ge
n
e
r
a
l
de
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
re
l
i
a
n
c
e
on
pr
i
v
a
t
e
,
mo
s
t
l
y
si
n
g
l
e
‐occupant vehicles (SOV) by
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
i
n
g
at
t
r
a
c
t
i
v
e
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
to
th
e
SO
V
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
use of alternatives to the SOV
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
ca
r
‐po
o
l
i
n
g
,
us
e
of
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
,
bicycling and walking.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Sy
s
t
e
m
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
(T
S
M
)
Programs. Encourage TSM
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
fo
r
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
in
bo
t
h
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
sectors by including
pr
e
f
e
r
r
e
d
pa
r
k
i
n
g
fo
r
ca
r
p
o
o
l
s
,
pr
o
v
i
d
i
n
g
bu
s
pa
s
s
e
s
,
encouraging compressed
wo
r
k
w
e
e
k
s
,
an
d
pr
o
v
i
d
i
n
g
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
an
d
re
w
a
r
d
s
fo
r
bicycling and walking.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Te
l
e
c
o
m
m
u
t
i
n
g
,
Te
l
e
c
o
n
f
e
r
e
n
c
i
n
g
an
d
Other Electronic
Co
m
m
u
n
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
em
p
l
o
y
e
r
s
to
us
e
th
e
in
t
e
r
n
e
t
to reduce commute
tr
a
v
e
l
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
sc
h
o
o
l
s
,
pa
r
t
i
c
u
l
a
r
l
y
at
th
e
co
l
l
e
g
e
and high school levels, to
ma
k
e
ma
x
i
m
u
m
us
e
of
th
e
in
t
e
r
n
e
t
to
li
m
i
t
th
e
ne
e
d
to travel to and from the
ca
m
p
u
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
De
s
i
g
n
of
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
new commercial
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
sh
a
r
e
d
of
f
i
c
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
ca
f
e
t
e
r
i
a
s
,
day‐care facilities,
lu
n
c
h
r
o
o
m
s
,
sh
o
w
e
r
s
,
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
,
ho
m
e
of
f
i
c
e
s
,
shuttle buses to transit
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
th
a
t
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
us
e
of transit, bicycling, walking
or
te
l
e
c
o
m
m
u
t
i
n
g
as
co
m
m
u
t
e
mo
d
e
s
to
wo
r
k
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
pedestrian pathways and
or
i
e
n
t
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
to
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
activity.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
St
r
e
e
t
Sp
a
c
e
fo
r
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
Provide space on
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
st
r
e
e
t
s
fo
r
bu
s
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
or
sa
f
e
an
d
ac
c
e
s
s
i
b
l
e
bike lanes or
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
pa
t
h
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Use the Cupertino Scene and
ot
h
e
r
me
d
i
a
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
on
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
to the SOV.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Ci
t
i
z
e
n
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
o
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
wo
r
k
with the City Bicycle
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
,
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
gr
o
u
p
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
to eliminate hazards
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
2
6
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
an
d
ba
r
r
i
e
r
s
to
bi
c
y
c
l
e
an
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
8.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
De
m
a
n
d
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
(T
D
M
)
Programs. Require
la
r
g
e
em
p
l
o
y
e
r
s
to
de
v
e
l
o
p
an
d
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
TD
M
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to reduce the vehicle
tr
i
p
s
ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
d
by
th
e
i
r
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
.
Wo
r
k
to
g
e
t
h
e
r
with the large employers to
de
v
e
l
o
p
a tr
a
c
k
i
n
g
sy
s
t
e
m
fo
r
th
e
TD
M
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
allow ongoing assessment of
re
s
u
l
t
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐4:
Im
p
r
o
v
e
d
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
Throughout Cupertino.
Ex
p
a
n
d
th
e
ci
t
y
‐wi
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
ne
t
w
o
r
k
in order to provide
im
p
r
o
v
e
d
re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
,
mo
b
i
l
i
t
y
an
d
sa
f
e
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Th
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
the projects
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
e
d
in
th
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
including:
o
Af
t
e
r
en
g
i
n
e
e
r
i
n
g
re
v
i
e
w
,
an
d
wh
e
r
e
fo
u
n
d
to be feasible, improve safety
at
se
l
e
c
t
e
d
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
by
on
e
or
mo
r
e
of
the following: prohibit right‐
tu
r
n
‐on
‐re
d
,
ad
d
ti
m
e
to
th
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
si
g
n
a
l
phase, construct a median
an
d
/
o
r
re
d
u
c
e
co
r
n
e
r
ra
d
i
i
.
o
Wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
pr
o
v
i
d
e
mi
s
s
i
n
g
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
on
arterial and collector streets
an
d
on
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
st
r
e
e
t
s
as
de
s
i
r
e
d
by
residents.
o
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
a ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
gr
i
d
including shortcuts,
pa
t
h
w
a
y
s
an
d
br
i
d
g
e
s
,
wh
e
r
e
ne
e
d
e
d
,
to
cl
o
s
e
gaps in the pedestrian
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Gr
i
d
.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
de
v
e
l
o
p
i
n
g
a qu
a
r
t
e
r
‐mile grid of safe, walk‐
ab
l
e
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
an
d
pa
t
h
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ac
c
e
s
s
among residential, shopping,
re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
Sc
h
o
o
l
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
to
encourage students to walk,
bi
k
e
,
or
ca
r
p
o
o
l
to
sc
h
o
o
l
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ti
m
e
on
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Si
g
n
a
l
s
.
Wi
t
h
engineering review, provide
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
ti
m
e
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
to
cr
o
s
s
st
r
e
e
t
s
at
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
intersections. Added
ti
m
e
wo
u
l
d
be
mo
s
t
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
ne
a
r
sh
o
p
p
i
n
g
di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
,
schools and senior citizen
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Th
i
s
st
r
a
t
e
g
y
sh
o
u
l
d
be
co
n
s
i
d
e
r
e
d
ev
e
n
if it could reduce the level
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
fo
r
au
t
o
m
o
b
i
l
e
tr
a
f
f
i
c
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
To
en
h
a
n
c
e
walking, consider various
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
to
ro
a
d
w
a
y
s
to
ma
k
e
th
e
m
mo
r
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
friendly and less auto‐
ce
n
t
r
i
c
.
Wh
e
r
e
a me
d
i
a
n
is
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
,
it
sh
o
u
l
d
be
wi
d
e
enough to safely
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
.
St
r
e
e
t
s
th
a
t
co
n
n
e
c
t
major pedestrian activity
ce
n
t
e
r
s
sh
o
u
l
d
be
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
d
fo
r
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
for pedestrians. Working
wi
t
h
th
e
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
,
co
n
s
i
d
e
r
re
d
u
c
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
street widths to promote
sl
o
w
e
r
tr
a
f
f
i
c
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-27
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Cr
o
s
s
w
a
l
k
Ma
r
k
i
n
g
,
Me
d
i
a
n
s
,
an
d
“C
h
o
k
e
r
s
.
”
Following engineering
re
v
i
e
w
,
ma
r
k
cr
o
s
s
w
a
l
k
s
wi
t
h
pa
v
e
m
e
n
t
tr
e
a
t
m
e
n
t
scaled to the speed of traffic.
Us
e
me
d
i
a
n
s
an
d
“c
h
o
k
e
r
s
”
to
na
r
r
o
w
th
e
wi
d
t
h
of
the street where feasible and
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
,
an
d
to
in
d
i
c
a
t
e
an
d
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
en
t
r
a
n
c
e
s
to neighborhoods.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Pr
e
p
a
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Im
p
a
c
t
Analysis (TIA). Encourage all
pu
b
l
i
c
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
that require a TIA to analyze
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
bi
c
y
c
l
e
an
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
im
p
a
c
t
s
in
ac
c
o
r
d
a
n
c
e
with the Santa Clara
Co
u
n
t
y
Va
l
l
e
y
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Au
t
h
o
r
i
t
y
(V
T
A
)
TI
A
Guidelines.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
8.
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
.
Maintain the Cupertino
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
,
as
ne
e
d
e
d
.
In
c
l
u
d
e
to
p
priority bicycle projects in
th
e
an
n
u
a
l
Ca
p
i
t
a
l
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to identify barriers to safe
an
d
co
n
v
e
n
i
e
n
t
bi
c
y
c
l
e
ac
c
e
s
s
an
d
th
e
n
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
how and when these barriers
wi
l
l
be
re
m
o
v
e
d
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
9.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Implement the specific
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
id
e
n
t
i
f
i
e
d
in
th
e
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Plan. The existing
Ne
t
w
o
r
k
is
sh
o
w
n
in
Fi
g
u
r
e
4‐B.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
10
.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
in
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Encourage the developers of
ma
j
o
r
ne
w
or
re
m
o
d
e
l
e
d
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
to
in
c
l
u
d
e
se
c
u
r
e
interior and/or fully weather
pr
o
t
e
c
t
e
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
the Ordinance requirement
fo
r
10
%
of
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
to
be
Cl
a
s
s
1.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
11
.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Ca
l
m
i
n
g
on
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
.
Wh
e
r
e
feasible and appropriate,
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
tr
a
f
f
i
c
ca
l
m
i
n
g
on
th
o
s
e
bi
c
y
c
l
e
ro
u
t
e
s
wh
e
r
e
automobile traffic volumes
ar
e
lo
w
.
Re
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Co
u
n
t
y
Va
l
l
e
y
Transportation Authority’s
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Te
c
h
n
i
c
a
l
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
fo
r
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
e
d
tr
a
f
f
i
c
calming measures.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
tr
a
f
f
i
c
fl
o
w
s
be
s
t
wh
e
r
e
au
t
o
m
o
b
i
l
e
tr
a
f
f
i
c
vo
l
u
m
e
and speeds are low and
wh
e
r
e
th
e
r
e
ar
e
no
st
o
p
si
g
n
s
or
tr
a
f
f
i
c
si
g
n
a
l
s
to
hi
n
d
e
r
through traffic flow.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
12
.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
in multi‐family residential
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
in
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
as
re
q
u
i
r
e
d
under the parking
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
Mu
n
i
c
i
p
a
l
Co
d
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
13
.
Fu
n
d
i
n
g
So
u
r
c
e
s
.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
fu
n
d
i
n
g
so
u
r
c
e
s
for regular
ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
cl
e
a
n
i
n
g
of
al
l
pu
b
l
i
c
bi
c
y
c
l
e
an
d
pedestrian facilities as part
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
bu
d
g
e
t
,
an
d
pr
i
o
r
i
t
i
z
e
ro
u
t
i
n
e
street maintenance for
st
r
e
e
t
s
wi
t
h
bi
k
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
14
.
Pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
Pr
i
v
a
t
e
Pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
s
.
Pa
r
t
n
e
r
with other agencies
an
d
/
o
r
or
g
a
n
i
z
a
t
i
o
n
s
to
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
fo
r
bi
c
y
c
l
i
s
t
s
,
pedestrians, and
mo
t
o
r
i
s
t
s
of
al
l
ag
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐6:
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
i
l
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to plan and provide for a
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
2
8
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
sy
s
t
e
m
of
tr
a
i
l
s
an
d
pa
t
h
w
a
y
s
co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
t
with regional
sy
s
t
e
m
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
th
e
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
,
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Co
r
r
i
d
o
r
and Ridge Trail, and
wi
t
h
th
e
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
co
n
t
a
i
n
e
d
in
th
e
La
n
d
Us
e
an
d
Community Design Element.
Th
e
Ge
n
e
r
a
l
Al
i
g
n
m
e
n
t
of
th
e
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
,
as
sh
o
w
n
in the Association of Bay
Ar
e
a
Go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
s
’
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
do
c
u
m
e
n
t
,
is incorporated in the
Ge
n
e
r
a
l
Pl
a
n
by
re
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐7:
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
Us
e
of
Pu
b
l
i
c
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
Su
p
p
o
r
t
and encourage the
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
us
e
of
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
in
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Ensure all new
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
in
c
l
u
d
e
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
to
su
p
p
o
r
t
public transit such as: bus
st
o
p
sh
e
l
t
e
r
s
;
sp
a
c
e
fo
r
tr
a
n
s
i
t
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
to
st
o
p
an
d
maneuver as needed;
tr
a
n
s
i
t
ma
p
s
an
d
sc
h
e
d
u
l
e
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
and institutional
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
to
su
p
p
o
r
t
bu
s
pa
s
s
e
s
fo
r
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
St
o
p
Am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
VTA and adjacent property
ow
n
e
r
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
at
t
r
a
c
t
i
v
e
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
su
c
h
as
se
a
t
i
n
g
,
lighting and signage at
al
l
bu
s
st
o
p
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Va
l
l
c
o
Pa
r
k
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
St
a
t
i
o
n
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
the VTA to study and
de
v
e
l
o
p
a tr
a
n
s
i
t
tr
a
n
s
f
e
r
st
a
t
i
o
n
at
So
u
t
h
Va
l
l
c
o
Park Gateways.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Ra
p
i
d
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Valley Transportation
Au
t
h
o
r
i
t
y
(V
T
A
)
to
pl
a
n
fo
r
an
d
de
v
e
l
o
p
bu
s
an
d
/
o
r
light rail rapid transit
se
r
v
i
c
e
s
in
th
e
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
an
d
no
r
t
h
De
An
z
a
corridors to take advantage of
th
e
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
ac
t
i
v
i
t
i
e
s
in
th
e
De Anza College customer
ba
s
e
.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
fr
e
q
u
e
n
c
y
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
to
encourage ridership. Review
im
p
a
c
t
s
to
en
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
s
ar
e
op
t
i
m
i
z
e
d
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐9:
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Se
r
v
i
c
e
an
d
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
Ne
e
d
s
.
Ba
l
a
n
c
e
the needs of
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
wi
t
h
de
s
i
r
e
d
tr
a
f
f
i
c
se
r
v
i
c
e
.
Wh
e
r
e
ne
c
e
s
s
a
r
y
and appropriate, allow
a lo
w
e
r
e
d
le
v
e
l
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
to
be
t
t
e
r
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
pedestrians on major
st
r
e
e
t
s
an
d
at
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐12
:
St
r
e
e
t
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
.
Pl
a
n
st
r
e
e
t
improvements such as curb
cu
t
s
,
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
,
bu
s
st
o
p
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
bu
s
sh
e
l
t
e
r
s
,
li
g
h
t
poles, benches and trash
co
n
t
a
i
n
e
r
s
as
an
in
t
e
g
r
a
l
pa
r
t
of
a pr
o
j
e
c
t
to
en
s
u
r
e
an enhanced streetscape and
th
e
sa
f
e
mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
of
pe
o
p
l
e
an
d
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
wi
t
h
th
e
least possible disruption to
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
s
c
a
p
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Si
d
e
w
a
l
k
Ac
c
e
s
s
to
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
or
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
.
Examine sidewalk to parking
ar
e
a
s
or
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
s
at
th
e
ti
m
e
in
d
i
v
i
d
u
a
l
si
t
e
s
develop to regulate the
en
t
r
y
to
th
e
si
t
e
at
a ce
n
t
r
a
l
po
i
n
t
.
Si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
in
th
e
Crossroads Area shall be wide
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-29
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
en
o
u
g
h
to
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ac
t
i
v
i
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Bu
s
St
o
p
Tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
in
St
r
e
e
t
Fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
s
.
Require bus stop turnouts, or
pa
r
t
i
a
l
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
wi
t
h
i
n
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
of
a ne
w
or redeveloping site. This
po
l
i
c
y
do
e
s
no
t
ap
p
l
y
to
th
e
Cr
o
s
s
r
o
a
d
s
Ar
e
a
.
Bu
s
st
o
p
s
should include shelters,
be
n
c
h
e
s
,
tr
a
s
h
re
c
e
p
t
a
c
l
e
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
as
appropriate. Follow the VTA
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
fo
r
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
bu
s
st
o
p
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Ro
a
d
w
a
y
Ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
Fu
n
d
i
n
g
.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
and secure new funding
so
u
r
c
e
s
to
fu
n
d
th
e
on
‐go
i
n
g
ro
u
t
i
n
e
ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
of roadways.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Ti
m
i
n
g
of
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
In
t
e
g
r
a
t
e
th
e
financing, design and
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
wi
t
h
street projects. Build
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
at
th
e
sa
m
e
ti
m
e
as improvements for
ve
h
i
c
u
l
a
r
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐13
:
Sa
f
e
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
Lo
t
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
lo
t
s
that are safe for pedestrians.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Sa
f
e
Sp
a
c
e
s
fo
r
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
lot design and
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
to
in
c
l
u
d
e
cl
e
a
r
l
y
de
f
i
n
e
d
sp
a
c
e
s
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
so that foot traffic
is
se
p
a
r
a
t
e
d
fr
o
m
th
e
ha
z
a
r
d
s
of
ca
r
tr
a
f
f
i
c
an
d
pe
o
p
l
e
are directed from their
ca
r
s
to
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
en
t
r
i
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐15
:
Sc
h
o
o
l
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Im
p
a
c
t
s
on
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
.
Minimize the impact of
sc
h
o
o
l
dr
o
p
‐of
f
,
pi
c
k
‐up
an
d
pa
r
k
i
n
g
on
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
wi
t
h
Sc
h
o
o
l
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
.
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
e
with the School
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
to
de
v
e
l
o
p
pl
a
n
s
an
d
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
th
a
t
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
car/van‐pooling, stagger
ho
u
r
s
of
ad
j
a
c
e
n
t
sc
h
o
o
l
s
,
dr
o
p
‐of
f
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
walking and bicycling to
sc
h
o
o
l
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Te
e
n
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
Te
e
n
Commission to work with
sc
h
o
o
l
s
to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ye
a
r
‐ro
u
n
d
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
i
z
e
walking and biking to
sc
h
o
o
l
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐3:
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Us
e
of
En
e
r
g
y
Resources. Encourage the
ma
x
i
m
u
m
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
us
e
of
electrical power and natural
ga
s
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
s
,
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
,
industrial and public
us
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
En
e
r
g
y
So
u
r
c
e
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
ensure the ease of access to
an
d
us
e
of
so
l
a
r
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
ot
h
e
r
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
,
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
energy resources for all
ne
w
an
d
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
l
y
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
buildings through effective
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
,
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
an
d
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
En
e
r
g
y
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
.
Prepare and implement a
co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
en
e
r
g
y
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
pl
a
n
fo
r
al
l
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
public facilities,
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
3
0
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
to
ac
h
i
e
v
e
th
e
en
e
r
g
y
go
a
l
s
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
in the City’s municipal
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
.
Em
b
e
d
th
i
s
pl
a
n
in
t
o
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Environmentally Preferable
Pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
to
en
s
u
r
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ar
e
ac
h
i
e
v
e
d
through all future
pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
wi
t
h
St
a
t
e
an
d
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
.
Continue to evaluate,
an
d
re
v
i
s
e
as
ne
c
e
s
s
a
r
y
,
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
Ci
t
y
co
d
e
s
,
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
s
and procedures for
in
c
l
u
s
i
o
n
of
lo
c
a
l
,
st
a
t
e
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
that promote energy
an
d
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to use life cycle cost analysis
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
Ci
t
y
as
s
e
t
s
fo
r
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
wi
t
h
mo
r
e
en
e
r
g
y
efficient technologies.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
In
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Su
p
p
o
r
t
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to include such items
as
re
d
u
c
e
d
pe
r
m
i
t
fe
e
s
fo
r
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
a
t
ex
c
e
e
d
the City’s Green Building
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
Ca
l
G
r
e
e
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
pr
o
m
o
t
e
ot
h
e
r
incentives from the state,
co
u
n
t
y
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
efficiency and expanding
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
in
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
by
po
s
t
i
n
g
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
regarding incentive,
re
b
a
t
e
an
d
ta
x
cr
e
d
i
t
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
we
b
si
t
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
So
l
a
r
Ac
c
e
s
s
St
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
en
s
u
r
e
compliance with the State
of
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
Su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
Ma
p
Ac
t
so
l
a
r
ac
c
e
s
s
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
in order to maximize
na
t
u
r
a
l
he
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
co
o
l
i
n
g
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
fo
r
fu
t
u
r
e
residences and businesses.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
in
c
l
u
s
i
o
n
of
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
sh
a
d
e
tr
e
e
s
and landscaping for energy
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
:
o
Of
f
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
programs and leverage those
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
Co
u
n
t
y
an
d
th
e
Ba
y
Regional Energy Network to
se
r
v
e
al
l
ut
i
l
i
t
y
us
e
r
s
.
o
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
ho
s
t
energy conservation
wo
r
k
s
h
o
p
s
fo
r
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
.
o
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
,
or
pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
ot
h
e
r
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
to
offer, educational materials,
se
m
i
n
a
r
an
d
st
a
f
f
tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
on
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
for those
wh
o
de
s
i
g
n
,
bu
i
l
d
an
d
ma
n
a
g
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
and for those who
re
g
u
l
a
t
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
,
per the City’s GreenBiz
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
In
pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
wi
t
h
De
An
z
a
Co
l
l
e
g
e
develop a “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
”
gu
i
d
e
fo
r
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
and businesses that
bu
i
l
d
s
up
o
n
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
.
The Guide should
in
c
l
u
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
cu
r
r
e
n
t
re
b
a
t
e
s
and subsidies to make
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
i
n
g
a su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
mo
r
e
financially attractive with
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-31
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
re
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
s
ba
c
k
to
th
e
Ci
t
y
,
St
a
t
e
,
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
and other web sites for up‐to‐
da
t
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
,
or
pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
other agencies to offer,
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
an
d
a ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
program for
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
an
d
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
wh
o
ha
v
e
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
d
in “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
co
u
r
s
e
s
.
Ma
n
y
of
th
e
cu
r
r
i
c
u
l
u
m
s
are currently available at De
An
z
a
Co
l
l
e
g
e
.
As
an
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
fo
r
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
n
g
in the “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
pr
o
g
r
a
m
th
e
Ci
t
y
wi
l
l
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
a “Sustainable Builder/
De
v
e
l
o
p
e
r
”
pa
g
e
on
th
e
i
r
cu
r
r
e
n
t
Ci
t
y
we
b
s
i
t
e
.
This page will not be an
en
d
o
r
s
e
m
e
n
t
of
th
e
in
d
i
v
i
d
u
a
l
or
co
m
p
a
n
y
listed, but a resource center
fo
r
th
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
o
Es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
an
d
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
an
En
e
r
g
y
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
Center or Kiosk at City Hall
wh
e
r
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
co
n
c
e
r
n
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
is
s
u
e
s
,
building standards,
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
as
s
i
s
t
a
n
c
e
is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
8.
En
e
r
g
y
Co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
Sy
s
t
e
m
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the use of energy
co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of
an
awareness program targeting
th
e
la
r
g
e
r
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
us
e
r
s
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
facilities.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
9.
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
De
s
i
g
n
.
En
s
u
r
e
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
,
developers, applicants
an
d
bu
i
l
d
e
r
s
me
e
t
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
and CalGreen and
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
,
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
s
an
d
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
to exceed these
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
ne
w
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of incentives. Encourage
ei
t
h
e
r
pa
s
s
i
v
e
so
l
a
r
he
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
/
o
r
da
r
k
pl
a
s
t
e
r
in
t
e
r
i
o
r
with a cover for
sw
i
m
m
i
n
g
po
o
l
s
,
ca
b
a
n
a
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
re
l
a
t
e
d
ac
c
e
s
s
o
r
y
uses where solar access is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
us
e
of
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
sources where feasible, and
co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
of
f
e
r
en
e
r
g
y
au
d
i
t
s
an
d
/
o
r
su
b
v
e
n
t
i
o
n
programs that also advance
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
ad
o
p
t
i
o
n
of
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
en
e
r
g
y
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
10
.
Us
e
of
Di
s
c
r
e
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
Pe
r
m
i
t
s
(Use Permits). Require, as
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
of
ap
p
r
o
v
a
l
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
,
the provision of energy
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ap
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
al
i
g
n
e
d
wi
t
h
th
e
City’s Green Building
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
Ca
l
G
r
e
e
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
11
.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Mo
d
e
s
.
Continue to encourage
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
,
fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
mo
d
e
s
su
c
h
as “clean” multi‐modal
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
,
ca
r
an
d
va
n
p
o
o
l
i
n
g
,
fl
e
x
i
b
l
e
wo
r
k
ho
u
r
s
,
safe routes to schools, and
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
t
h
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
and training,
in
f
r
a
s
t
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
in
v
e
s
t
m
e
n
t
,
an
d
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
,
including commuter benefits
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
La
n
d
Us
e
an
d
LU
M
1 – Go
o
d
s
Mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
Th
e
20
1
0
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
al
s
o
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
la
n
d
us
e
measures to reduce air
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
3
2
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
Lo
c
a
l
Im
p
a
c
t
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
LU
M
2 – In
d
i
r
e
c
t
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
LU
M
3 – En
h
a
n
c
e
d
CE
Q
A
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
LU
M
4 – La
n
d
Us
e
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
LU
M
5 – Re
d
u
c
e
Ri
s
k
in
Im
p
a
c
t
e
d
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
LU
M
6 – En
h
a
n
c
e
d
Ai
r
Qu
a
l
i
t
y
Mo
n
i
t
o
r
i
n
g
qu
a
l
i
t
y
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
an
d
/
o
r
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
ex
p
o
s
u
r
e
in
th
e
SF
B
A
A
B
.
The following proposed
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
su
p
p
o
r
t
th
e
s
e
la
n
d
us
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
:
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐5:
Ai
r
Po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
Ef
f
e
c
t
s
of
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Minimize the air quality
im
p
a
c
t
s
of
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
an
d
th
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
affecting new
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
To
x
i
c
Ai
r
Co
n
t
a
m
i
n
a
n
t
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
re
v
i
e
w
projects for potential
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
to
x
i
c
ai
r
co
n
t
a
m
i
n
a
n
t
s
at
th
e
ti
m
e
of
approval and confer with
BA
A
Q
M
D
on
co
n
t
r
o
l
s
ne
e
d
e
d
if
im
p
a
c
t
s
ar
e
un
c
e
r
t
a
i
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Du
s
t
Co
n
t
r
o
l
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
re
q
u
i
r
e
wa
t
e
r
application to non‐polluting
du
s
t
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
du
r
i
n
g
de
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
th
e
du
r
a
t
i
o
n
of the construction
pe
r
i
o
d
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
De
c
i
s
i
o
n
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
as
s
e
s
s
th
e
potential for air pollution
ef
f
e
c
t
s
of
fu
t
u
r
e
la
n
d
us
e
an
d
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
,
and ensure that planning
de
c
i
s
i
o
n
s
su
p
p
o
r
t
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
go
a
l
s
of
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
v
i
e
w
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
the relationship of
se
n
s
i
t
i
v
e
re
c
e
p
t
o
r
s
,
su
c
h
as
co
n
v
a
l
e
s
c
e
n
t
ho
s
p
i
t
a
l
s
and residential uses, to
po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
so
u
r
c
e
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
as
s
e
s
s
m
e
n
t
of new development.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐6:
Ai
r
Po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
Ef
f
e
c
t
s
of
Ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Minimize the air quality
im
p
a
c
t
s
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
a Ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
public education
pr
o
g
r
a
m
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
th
e
im
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
of
th
e
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Act and provide information
on
wa
y
s
to
re
d
u
c
e
an
d
co
n
t
r
o
l
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
;
co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to provide information about
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
co
m
m
u
t
e
s
,
ca
r
p
o
o
l
i
n
g
an
d
re
s
t
r
i
c
t
i
n
g
ex
a
c
e
r
b
a
t
i
n
g
activities on
“S
p
a
r
e
th
e
Ai
r
”
hi
g
h
‐po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
da
y
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Ho
m
e
Oc
c
u
p
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
Ex
p
a
n
d
th
e
al
l
o
w
a
b
l
e
home occupations in
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
zo
n
e
d
pr
o
p
e
r
t
i
e
s
to
re
d
u
c
e
th
e
ne
e
d
to
commute to work.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Tr
e
e
Pl
a
n
t
i
n
g
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
City’s tree planting program
to
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
ur
b
a
n
ca
n
o
p
y
on
Ci
t
y
pr
o
p
e
r
t
y
and encourage native,
sh
a
d
e
‐pr
o
d
u
c
i
n
g
,
dr
o
u
g
h
t
‐to
l
e
r
a
n
t
tr
e
e
an
d
ot
h
e
r
plantings on private property.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
.
Pe
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
l
y
Preferable
Pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
,
pr
i
o
r
i
t
i
z
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
pu
r
c
h
a
s
e
,
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
and ongoing use
of
fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
an
d
lo
w
po
l
l
u
t
i
n
g
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
.
Up
d
a
t
e
the City’s Vehicle
Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
an
d
Bu
d
g
e
t
to
re
q
u
i
r
e
ve
h
i
c
l
e
li
f
e
c
y
c
l
e
cost analyses and
in
c
l
u
d
e
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
fu
e
l
i
n
g
in
f
r
a
s
t
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
re
v
i
e
w
an
d
related funding allocations.
Up
d
a
t
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
Us
e
Po
l
i
c
y
to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
alternative vehicle use across
al
l
de
p
a
r
t
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
fu
e
l
‐sa
v
i
n
g
dr
i
v
e
r
be
h
a
v
i
o
r
s
an
d
habits. Review and
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-33
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
fl
e
e
t
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
be
s
t
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
to
su
p
p
o
r
t
fuel conservation,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
sc
h
e
d
u
l
e
d
ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
fl
e
e
t
fu
e
l
tr
a
c
k
i
n
g
.
Pursue available grant
fu
n
d
i
n
g
to
of
f
s
e
t
th
e
co
s
t
of
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
i
n
g
th
e
s
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
Mo
n
i
t
o
r
Qu
a
r
r
y
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
work with County to monitor
an
d
in
f
l
u
e
n
c
e
/
e
n
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
of
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
and dust from the Hanson
an
d
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Qu
a
r
r
i
e
s
on
th
e
We
s
t
en
d
of
th
e
City.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐8:
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
Co
m
p
a
t
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
.
Mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
potential conflicts with
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
fr
o
m
no
i
s
e
,
tr
a
f
f
i
c
,
li
g
h
t
and visually intrusive effects
fr
o
m
mo
r
e
in
t
e
n
s
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
wi
t
h
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
bu
f
f
e
r
i
n
g
setbacks, landscaping,
wa
l
l
s
,
li
m
i
t
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
si
t
e
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
ot
h
e
r
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
measures. Create zoning or
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
pl
a
n
s
th
a
t
re
d
u
c
e
in
c
o
m
p
a
t
i
b
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
be
t
w
e
e
n
new development and
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
such as: daylight planes for
si
n
g
l
e
‐fa
m
i
l
y
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
,
mi
n
i
m
u
m
se
t
b
a
c
k
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
,
landscape screening,
ac
o
u
s
t
i
c
a
l
an
a
l
y
s
i
s
,
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
or
i
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
areas away from
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
us
e
s
an
d
li
m
i
t
a
t
i
o
n
s
on
ho
u
r
s
of
op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
6‐28
:
Pr
o
x
i
m
i
t
y
of
Re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
to
Ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
Assess future
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
’
ex
p
o
s
u
r
e
to
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
wh
e
n
new residential development
or
ch
i
l
d
c
a
r
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
ar
e
pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
in
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
and manufacturing areas.
Do
no
t
al
l
o
w
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
or
ch
i
l
d
c
a
r
e
facilities if such hazardous
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
ca
n
n
o
t
be
mi
t
i
g
a
t
e
d
to
an
ac
c
e
p
t
a
b
l
e
le
v
e
l
of risk.
En
e
r
g
y
an
d
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
EC
M
1 – En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
EC
M
2 – Re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
En
e
r
g
y
EC
M
3 – Ur
b
a
n
He
a
t
Is
l
a
n
d
Mi
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
EC
M
4 – Tr
e
e
Pl
a
n
t
i
n
g
Th
e
20
1
0
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
al
s
o
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
to reduce energy use,
wa
t
e
r
us
e
,
an
d
wa
s
t
e
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
.
Th
e
fo
l
l
o
w
i
n
g
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
support these energy
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
ot
h
e
r
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
:
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐1:
Pr
i
n
c
i
p
l
e
s
of
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
.
In
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
the principles of sustainability
in
t
o
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
’
s
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
an
d
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
sy
s
t
e
m
in order to improve the
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
,
re
d
u
c
e
gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
ga
s
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
an
d
meet the needs of the
pr
e
s
e
n
t
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
wi
t
h
o
u
t
co
m
p
r
o
m
i
s
i
n
g
th
e
ne
e
d
s
of future generations.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
Ga
s
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
Ta
r
g
e
t
.
The City shall adopt and
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
a Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
t
wi
t
h
St
a
t
e
Law.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
Ta
s
k
Fo
r
c
e
or
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
.
Appoint a Task Force or
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
to
ov
e
r
s
e
e
th
e
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
City’s Climate Action Plan. The
go
a
l
s
of
th
i
s
Ta
s
k
Fo
r
c
e
/
C
o
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
wo
u
l
d
be
:
a.
Wr
i
t
e
an
d
ke
e
p
cu
r
r
e
n
t
th
e
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
through ongoing
me
a
s
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
of
mu
n
i
c
i
p
a
l
an
d
ci
t
y
‐wi
d
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to help achieve the
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
an
d
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
section of the General Plan.
b.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
,
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
i
e
s
,
an
d
pr
o
d
u
c
t
s
to attain the greenhouse
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
3
4
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
ga
s
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
s
ta
r
g
e
t
s
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
in the City’s Climate Action
Pl
a
n
an
d
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
th
e
li
f
e
‐cy
c
l
e
co
s
t
of
ow
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
for each recommended.
c.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
Ci
t
y
st
a
f
f
to
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
th
e
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
fe
a
s
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
of these
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
a
t
i
o
n
s
on
an
on
g
o
i
n
g
ba
s
i
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
ad
o
p
t
and implement new
en
e
r
g
y
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
implementation programs
th
a
t
in
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
an
d
re
g
u
l
a
t
o
r
y
process.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Ci
t
y
‐Wi
d
e
In
v
e
n
t
o
r
y
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
co
n
d
u
c
t
an ongoing municipal and
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
‐wi
d
e
gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
ga
s
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
in
v
e
n
t
o
r
y
and periodically review
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
in
or
d
e
r
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
is
s
u
e
s
,
opportunities and planning
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
En
e
r
g
y
an
d
Wa
t
e
r
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Plan. Prepare and implement
a co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
th
a
t
pr
i
o
r
i
t
i
z
e
s
energy and water
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
.
Th
i
s
pl
a
n
wi
l
l
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
a
l
l
y
in
c
l
u
d
e
recommendations
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
:
a.
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
u
m
p
t
i
o
n
.
b.
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
fo
s
s
i
l
fu
e
l
us
e
.
c.
Ma
x
i
m
u
m
us
e
of
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
.
d.
Im
p
r
o
v
e
Ci
t
y
‐wi
d
e
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
.
e.
Re
d
u
c
e
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
u
m
p
t
i
o
n
wi
t
h
i
n
mu
n
i
c
i
p
a
l
operations.
f.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
an
d
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
i
z
e
re
d
u
c
e
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
and business water use.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Ga
r
d
e
n
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
and school gardens, which
pr
o
v
i
d
e
a mo
r
e
li
v
a
b
l
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
by
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
n
g
te
m
p
e
r
a
t
u
r
e
,
noise and pollution,
an
d
cr
e
a
t
e
ac
c
e
s
s
to
he
a
l
t
h
y
,
lo
c
a
l
so
u
r
c
e
s
of
fo
o
d
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Fi
s
c
a
l
l
y
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Wa
s
t
e
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
.
Consider environmental and
so
c
i
a
l
co
s
t
s
in
al
l
de
c
i
s
i
o
n
‐ma
k
i
n
g
an
d
bu
d
g
e
t
de
c
i
s
i
o
n
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐3:
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Us
e
of
En
e
r
g
y
Resources. Encourage the
ma
x
i
m
u
m
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
us
e
of
electrical power and natural
ga
s
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
s
,
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
,
industrial and public
us
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
En
e
r
g
y
So
u
r
c
e
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
en
s
u
r
e
the ease of access to and
us
e
of
so
l
a
r
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
ot
h
e
r
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
,
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
resources for all new and
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
l
y
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
effective policies,
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
an
d
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
En
e
r
g
y
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
.
Prepare and implement a
co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
en
e
r
g
y
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
pl
a
n
fo
r
al
l
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
public facilities, equipment
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-35
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
to
ac
h
i
e
v
e
th
e
en
e
r
g
y
go
a
l
s
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
in
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
municipal Climate Action
Pl
a
n
.
Em
b
e
d
th
i
s
pl
a
n
in
t
o
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
l
y
Preferable Procurement
Po
l
i
c
y
to
en
s
u
r
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ar
e
ac
h
i
e
v
e
d
th
r
o
u
g
h
al
l
future procurement and
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
wi
t
h
St
a
t
e
an
d
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
.
Continue to evaluate, and
re
v
i
s
e
as
ne
c
e
s
s
a
r
y
,
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
Ci
t
y
co
d
e
s
,
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
s
and procedures for inclusion of
lo
c
a
l
,
st
a
t
e
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
th
a
t
pr
o
m
o
t
e
energy and water
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
use life cycle cost analysis to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
Ci
t
y
as
s
e
t
s
fo
r
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
wi
t
h
mo
r
e
en
e
r
g
y
efficient technologies.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
In
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Su
p
p
o
r
t
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to include such items as
re
d
u
c
e
d
pe
r
m
i
t
fe
e
s
fo
r
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
a
t
ex
c
e
e
d
th
e
City’s Green Building
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
Ca
l
G
r
e
e
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
pr
o
m
o
t
e
ot
h
e
r
incentives from the state,
co
u
n
t
y
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
efficiency and expanding
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
in
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
by
po
s
t
i
n
g
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
regarding incentive, rebate
an
d
ta
x
cr
e
d
i
t
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
we
b
si
t
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
So
l
a
r
Ac
c
e
s
s
St
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
en
s
u
r
e
compliance with the State of
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
Su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
Ma
p
Ac
t
so
l
a
r
ac
c
e
s
s
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
in
order to maximize natural
he
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
co
o
l
i
n
g
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
fo
r
fu
t
u
r
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
s
and businesses. Encourage
th
e
in
c
l
u
s
i
o
n
of
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
sh
a
d
e
tr
e
e
s
an
d
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
for energy efficiency.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
:
o
Of
f
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
and leverage those
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
Co
u
n
t
y
an
d
th
e
Ba
y
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Energy Network to
se
r
v
e
al
l
ut
i
l
i
t
y
us
e
r
s
.
o
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
ho
s
t
en
e
r
g
y
conservation workshops for
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
.
o
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
,
or
pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
ot
h
e
r
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
to
of
f
e
r
,
educational materials, seminar
an
d
st
a
f
f
tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
on
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
for those who design, build
an
d
ma
n
a
g
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
an
d
fo
r
th
o
s
e
wh
o
regulate building design and
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
,
pe
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
B
i
z
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
In partnership with De Anza
Co
l
l
e
g
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
a “S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
”
guide for Cupertino
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
th
a
t
bu
i
l
d
s
up
o
n
th
e
City’s Green Building Ordinance.
Th
e
Gu
i
d
e
sh
o
u
l
d
in
c
l
u
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
current rebates and subsidies
to
ma
k
e
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
i
n
g
a su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
more financially attractive with
re
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
s
ba
c
k
to
th
e
Ci
t
y
,
St
a
t
e
,
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
an
d
other web sites for up‐to‐date
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
P
r
o
v
i
d
e
,
or
pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
ot
h
e
r
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
to offer, educational
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
an
d
a ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
pr
o
g
r
a
m
for contractors and architects
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
3
6
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
wh
o
ha
v
e
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
d
in
“S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
courses. Many of the
cu
r
r
i
c
u
l
u
m
s
ar
e
cu
r
r
e
n
t
l
y
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
at
De
An
z
a
College. As an incentive for
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
n
g
in
th
e
“S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
pr
o
g
r
a
m
the City will maintain a
“S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Bu
i
l
d
e
r
/
De
v
e
l
o
p
e
r
”
pa
g
e
on
th
e
i
r
current City website. This page
wi
l
l
no
t
be
an
en
d
o
r
s
e
m
e
n
t
of
th
e
in
d
i
v
i
d
u
a
l
or
company listed, but a resource
ce
n
t
e
r
fo
r
th
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
o
Es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
an
d
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
an
En
e
r
g
y
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
Center or Kiosk at City Hall
wh
e
r
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
co
n
c
e
r
n
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
is
s
u
e
s
,
building standards, recycling and
as
s
i
s
t
a
n
c
e
is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
8.
En
e
r
g
y
Co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
Sy
s
t
e
m
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
use of energy cogeneration
sy
s
t
e
m
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of
an
aw
a
r
e
n
e
s
s
pr
o
g
r
a
m
targeting the larger
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
us
e
r
s
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
9.
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
De
s
i
g
n
.
En
s
u
r
e
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
,
developers, applicants and
bu
i
l
d
e
r
s
me
e
t
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
CalGreen and encourage
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
,
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
s
an
d
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
to
ex
c
e
e
d
these requirements for new
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
either passive solar heating
an
d
/
o
r
da
r
k
pl
a
s
t
e
r
in
t
e
r
i
o
r
wi
t
h
a co
v
e
r
fo
r
sw
i
m
m
i
n
g
pools, cabanas and other
re
l
a
t
e
d
ac
c
e
s
s
o
r
y
us
e
s
wh
e
r
e
so
l
a
r
ac
c
e
s
s
is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
Encourage the use of renewable
en
e
r
g
y
so
u
r
c
e
s
wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
,
an
d
co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
of
f
e
r
energy audits and/or
su
b
v
e
n
t
i
o
n
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
th
a
t
al
s
o
ad
v
a
n
c
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
adoption of alternative energy
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
10
.
Us
e
of
Di
s
c
r
e
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
Pe
r
m
i
t
s
(Use Permits). Require, as
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
of
ap
p
r
o
v
a
l
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
,
the provision of energy
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ap
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
al
i
g
n
e
d
wi
t
h
th
e
City’s Green Building
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
Ca
l
G
r
e
e
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
11
.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Mo
d
e
s
.
Continue to encourage
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
,
fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
mo
d
e
s
su
c
h
as “clean” multi‐modal
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
,
ca
r
an
d
va
n
p
o
o
l
i
n
g
,
fl
e
x
i
b
l
e
wo
r
k
ho
u
r
s
,
safe routes to schools, and
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
t
h
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
and training,
in
f
r
a
s
t
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
in
v
e
s
t
m
e
n
t
,
an
d
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
,
including commuter benefits
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐4:
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
De
s
i
g
n
.
Se
t
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
fo
r
the design and construction
of
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
i
n
g
/
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
(Green Building Design).
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Pe
r
i
o
d
i
c
a
l
l
y
re
v
i
e
w
and revise the City’s Green
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
to
en
s
u
r
e
al
i
g
n
m
e
n
t
wi
t
h
st
a
t
e
CalGreen requirements for all
ma
j
o
r
pr
i
v
a
t
e
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
a
t
en
s
u
r
e
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
in energy and water use for
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
th
r
o
u
g
h
si
t
e
se
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
an
d
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
design.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-37
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
En
e
r
g
y
Au
d
i
t
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
of
f
e
r
and leverage regional
pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
’
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
co
n
d
u
c
t
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
as
s
e
s
s
m
e
n
t
s
for homes,
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
,
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
an
d
ci
t
y
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
an
d
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
improvements that lead to
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
co
s
t
sa
v
i
n
g
s
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
fo
r
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
n
t
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
”
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
i
o
n
Gu
i
d
e
.
Pr
e
p
a
r
e
a “Green Building” evaluation
gu
i
d
e
ba
s
e
d
up
o
n
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
,
CalGreen, and above listed
“e
s
s
e
n
t
i
a
l
co
m
p
o
n
e
n
t
s
”
fo
r
us
e
by
th
e
ci
t
y
st
a
f
f
wh
e
n
reviewing projects.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
St
a
f
f
Tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
tr
a
i
n
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
staff in the design principles,
co
s
t
s
,
an
d
be
n
e
f
i
t
s
of
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
an
d
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
e
design. Encourage staff to
at
t
e
n
d
ou
t
s
i
d
e
tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
s
on
th
e
s
e
to
p
i
c
s
an
d
at
t
a
i
n
relevant program
ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
(e
.
g
.
Gr
e
e
n
Po
i
n
t
Ra
t
e
r
,
LE
E
D
Ac
c
r
e
d
i
t
e
d
Professional).
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
”
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Se
m
i
n
a
r
s
.
Conduct and/or participate in
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
an
d
wo
r
k
s
h
o
p
s
for members of the design
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
in
d
u
s
t
r
y
,
la
n
d
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
,
re
a
l
es
t
a
t
e
sales, lending institutions,
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
an
d
de
s
i
g
n
,
th
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
in
d
u
s
t
r
y
and prospective project
ap
p
l
i
c
a
n
t
s
.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
mo
d
e
l
i
n
g
th
i
s
pr
o
g
r
a
m
af
t
e
r
th
e
CERT program.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Co
m
m
u
n
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
Fu
r
t
h
e
r
ac
c
e
l
e
r
a
t
e
community adoption of
gr
e
e
n
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
re
g
u
l
a
r
l
y
fe
a
t
u
r
e
d
articles in the Cupertino
Sc
e
n
e
,
me
d
i
a
ou
t
r
e
a
c
h
to
th
e
Co
u
r
i
e
r
an
d
th
e
Gu
i
d
e
(San Jose Mercury),
st
r
e
a
m
i
n
g
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
an
d
ot
h
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
courses or seminars on
th
e
Ci
t
y
Ch
a
n
n
e
l
,
an
d
ma
k
e
th
e
s
e
re
c
o
r
d
i
n
g
s
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
at the Library.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐7:
Us
e
of
Op
e
n
Fi
r
e
s
an
d
Fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
.
Di
s
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
high pollution fireplace
us
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Ai
r
Qu
a
l
i
t
y
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
(BAAQMD) Literature.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
ma
k
e
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
BA
A
Q
M
D
li
t
e
r
a
t
u
r
e
on
reducing pollution from
fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
us
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
In
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
Ne
w
Fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to prohibit the use of wood‐
bu
r
n
i
n
g
fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
in
ne
w
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
,
ex
c
e
p
t
fo
r
Environmental Protection
Ag
e
n
c
y
Ce
r
t
i
f
i
e
d
Wo
o
d
s
t
o
v
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐28
:
In
t
e
r
a
g
e
n
c
y
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
actively pursue interagency
co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
fo
r
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
wa
t
e
r
su
p
p
l
y
pr
o
b
l
e
m
so
l
v
i
n
g
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐29
:
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
Lo
c
a
l
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Po
l
i
c
i
e
s
with Regionwide
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Po
l
i
c
i
e
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
e
ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
water conservation
ef
f
o
r
t
s
wi
t
h
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
Wa
t
e
r
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
(S
C
V
W
D
)
,
San Jose Water
Co
m
p
a
n
y
an
d
Ca
l
Wa
t
e
r
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
.
Wa
t
e
r
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
the drought plans from the
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
3
8
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
Ci
t
y
’
s
wa
t
e
r
re
t
a
i
l
e
r
s
(S
a
n
Jo
s
e
Wa
t
e
r
Co
m
p
a
n
y
an
d
California Water Company)
an
d
SC
V
W
D
wh
e
n
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
ef
f
o
r
t
s
ar
e
ne
e
d
e
d
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐30
:
Pu
b
l
i
c
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
Ef
f
o
r
t
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
th
e
public information regarding
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
te
c
h
n
i
q
u
e
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
how paving and other
im
p
e
r
v
i
o
u
s
su
r
f
a
c
e
s
im
p
a
c
t
ru
n
o
f
f
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Ou
t
r
e
a
c
h
.
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
in
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
pu
b
l
i
c
outreach with other
st
o
r
m
w
a
t
e
r
co
‐pe
r
m
i
t
t
e
e
s
.
Al
s
o
co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
se
n
d
educational information and
no
t
i
c
e
s
to
ho
u
s
e
h
o
l
d
s
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
wi
t
h
wa
t
e
r
pr
o
h
i
b
i
t
i
o
n
s
,
water allocations
an
d
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
ti
p
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
of
f
e
r
fe
a
t
u
r
e
d
ar
t
i
c
l
e
s
in the Cupertino Scene
an
d
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Co
u
r
i
e
r
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Pu
b
l
i
c
Service Announcements on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Ch
a
n
n
e
l
an
d
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Ra
d
i
o
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
De
m
o
n
s
t
r
a
t
i
o
n
Ga
r
d
e
n
s
.
In
c
l
u
d
e
wa
t
e
r
‐wise demonstration gardens
in
so
m
e
pa
r
k
s
wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
as
th
e
y
ar
e
re
l
a
n
d
s
c
a
p
e
d
or improved using
dr
o
u
g
h
t
to
l
e
r
a
n
t
na
t
i
v
e
an
d
no
n
‐in
v
a
s
i
v
e
,
no
n
‐na
t
i
v
e
plants.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Ma
s
t
e
r
Ga
r
d
e
n
e
r
s
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
Co
u
n
t
y
Master Gardeners and
ot
h
e
r
re
l
e
v
a
n
t
st
e
w
a
r
d
s
h
i
p
pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
wa
t
e
r
‐wise plant materials and
ir
r
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
me
t
h
o
d
s
fo
r
us
e
in
pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
ar
e
a
s
.
This information should be
sh
a
r
e
d
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
we
b
si
t
e
an
d
in
c
l
u
d
e
d
in
Cupertino Scene
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Se
c
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐31
:
Wa
t
e
r
Us
e
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
use of water throughout the
Ci
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Re
c
y
c
l
e
d
Wa
t
e
r
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
on
s
i
t
e
wa
t
e
r
recycling including the use
of
ci
s
t
e
r
n
s
to
co
l
l
e
c
t
ra
i
n
ru
n
o
f
f
an
d
tr
e
a
t
e
d
gr
a
y
wa
t
e
r
systems.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
La
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
Pl
a
n
s
.
Pe
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
y
w
a
t
e
r
Ordinance, require water‐
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
pl
a
n
s
th
a
t
in
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
th
e
us
a
g
e
of recycled water for landscape
ir
r
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
as
pa
r
t
of
th
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
re
v
i
e
w
pr
o
c
e
s
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Wa
t
e
r
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to work with the Santa Clara
Va
l
l
e
y
Wa
t
e
r
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
,
Sa
n
Jo
s
e
Wa
t
e
r
an
d
Ca
l
Wa
t
e
r
to undertake programs that
pr
o
m
o
t
e
wa
t
e
r
us
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
fo
r
mu
n
i
c
i
p
a
l
,
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
,
and commercial
cu
s
t
o
m
e
r
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
ac
t
i
v
i
t
i
e
s
th
a
t
su
p
p
o
r
t
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Green Business
Ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
go
a
l
s
of
lo
n
g
‐te
r
m
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
within City buildings,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
in
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
lo
w
‐fl
o
w
to
i
l
e
t
s
an
d
sh
o
w
e
r
s
,
installation of automatic
sh
u
t
of
f
va
l
v
e
s
in
la
v
a
t
o
r
i
e
s
an
d
si
n
k
s
an
d
wa
t
e
r
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
outdoor irrigation, per
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Wa
t
e
r
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
La
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
,
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
l
y
Preferable
Pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
,
an
d
th
e
Pa
r
k
s
& Re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
Gr
e
e
n
Policies.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐38
:
Co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
/
I
n
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
.
Ex
p
a
n
d
existing commercial and
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.2-39
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
me
e
t
an
d
su
r
p
a
s
s
AB 939 waste stream
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
go
a
l
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
.
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
.
Re
q
u
e
s
t
th
a
t
al
l
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
and industrial uses to
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
i
r
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
ef
f
o
r
t
s
to
he
l
p
th
e
ci
t
y
ac
h
i
e
v
e
its recycling goals.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐39
:
Re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
.
A co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
recycling program is to be
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
fo
r
al
l
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
an
d
mu
l
t
i
‐fa
m
i
l
y
dw
e
l
l
i
n
g
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
wi
t
h
So
l
i
d
Wa
s
t
e
an
d
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Contractor. Work closely with
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
so
l
i
d
wa
s
t
e
an
d
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
to
de
v
e
l
o
p
and implement efficient
an
d
ef
f
e
c
t
i
v
e
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
me
t
h
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
E‐Wa
s
t
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
/
m
a
k
e
permanent the e‐waste
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Cu
r
b
s
i
d
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
of
Ya
r
d
Wa
s
t
e
an
d
Co
m
p
o
s
t
a
b
l
e
s
.
Include vegetable,
fr
u
i
t
an
d
ot
h
e
r
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
fo
o
d
it
e
m
s
,
as
we
l
l
as
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
of non‐reusable
ba
t
t
e
r
i
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐40
:
On
‐si
t
e
Ga
r
b
a
g
e
an
d
Or
g
a
n
i
c
Co
l
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
Area Dedication. Modify
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
,
an
d
re
q
u
i
r
e
fo
r
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
,
on
‐si
t
e
waste facility requirements
fo
r
al
l
mu
l
t
i
‐fa
m
i
l
y
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
,
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
land uses to have
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
co
v
e
r
e
d
ar
e
a
fo
r
a co
m
b
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
ga
r
b
a
g
e
,
recycling and organic
co
l
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
.
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
Re
v
i
s
i
o
n
s
.
Re
v
i
s
e
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
s
as needed relative to
on
‐si
t
e
wa
s
t
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
y
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
al
l
mu
l
t
i
‐fa
m
i
l
y
residential, commercial
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
zo
n
i
n
g
di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
to
re
q
u
i
r
e
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
covered area for a
co
m
b
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
ga
r
b
a
g
e
,
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
or
g
a
n
i
c
co
l
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐41
:
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
th
e
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
public education program
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
th
e
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
so
l
i
d
wa
s
t
e
di
s
p
o
s
a
l
wh
i
l
e
encouraging recycling and
or
g
a
n
i
c
di
v
e
r
s
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Us
e
th
e
lo
c
a
l
television channel, the
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Sc
e
n
e
,
th
e
In
t
e
r
n
e
t
an
d
ot
h
e
r
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
me
d
i
a
to provide information to the
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
ab
o
u
t
th
e
ob
j
e
c
t
i
v
e
s
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
organic diversion programs.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Re
u
s
a
b
l
e
Pr
o
d
u
c
t
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
us
e
of
re
u
s
a
b
l
e
products.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐42
:
Ci
t
y
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
Or
g
a
n
i
c
Di
v
e
r
s
i
o
n
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
City staff to recycle
an
d
co
m
p
o
s
t
at
al
l
Ci
t
y
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
Or
g
a
n
i
c
Di
v
e
r
s
i
o
n
Op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
.
Provide collection bins and
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
nu
m
b
e
r
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
or
g
a
n
i
c
bins at strategically located
ar
e
a
s
to
fa
c
i
l
i
t
a
t
e
di
s
p
o
s
a
l
of
re
c
y
c
l
a
b
l
e
an
d
or
g
a
n
i
c
materials, including all City parks.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
an
d
In
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
s
.
Pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
sc
h
o
o
l
s
/
i
n
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
s
in Cupertino
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
A
5.
2
-
4
0
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
2
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
to
en
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
th
e
y
un
d
e
r
s
t
a
n
d
an
d
ar
e
ad
h
e
r
i
n
g
to
the City’s recycling and
or
g
a
n
i
c
di
v
e
r
s
i
o
n
go
a
l
s
an
d
pr
o
v
i
d
i
n
g
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
and composting
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
to
st
a
f
f
an
d
st
u
d
e
n
t
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐43
:
Re
‐di
s
t
r
i
b
u
t
i
o
n
of
Re
u
s
a
b
l
e
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
Through public education,
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
to
re
‐di
s
t
r
i
b
u
t
e
reusable materials (e.g.
ga
r
a
g
e
sa
l
e
s
,
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
ex
c
h
a
n
g
e
)
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Di
s
s
e
m
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Di
s
s
e
m
i
n
a
t
e
information to both
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
th
e
be
n
e
f
i
t
s
of
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
and further reducing the
so
l
i
d
wa
s
t
e
st
r
e
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Us
e
of
th
e
In
t
e
r
n
e
t
.
Se
t
up
a we
b
si
t
e
fo
r
the benefit of the public
wh
e
r
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
ca
n
be
po
s
t
e
d
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
i
n
g
th
e
av
a
i
l
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
of recyclable
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
th
e
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
of
ex
c
h
a
n
g
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
of
Pr
o
d
u
c
t
St
e
w
a
r
d
s
h
i
p
.
Per the City’s Extended
Pr
o
d
u
c
e
r
Re
s
p
o
n
s
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
(E
P
R
)
po
l
i
c
y
,
su
p
p
o
r
t
EP
R
in
i
t
i
a
t
i
v
e
s
and statewide
le
g
i
s
l
a
t
i
o
n
th
a
t
wi
l
l
gi
v
e
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
fo
r
th
e
re
d
e
s
i
g
n
of products and packaging to
fa
c
i
l
i
t
a
t
e
th
e
re
‐us
e
of
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
to
ma
k
e
th
e
ov
e
r
a
l
l
products less toxic and
ea
s
i
e
r
to
re
c
y
c
l
e
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐44
:
Re
u
s
e
of
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the recycling and reuse of
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
d
by the demolition and
re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
of
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Po
s
t
De
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
Re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Encourage contractors to
po
s
t
de
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
on
th
e
In
t
e
r
n
e
t
announcing the
av
a
i
l
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
of
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
re
u
s
a
b
l
e
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
Pr
i
v
a
t
e
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
working on City
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
to
us
e
re
c
y
c
l
e
d
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
y
harvested wood
pr
o
d
u
c
t
s
to
th
e
ma
x
i
m
u
m
ex
t
e
n
t
po
s
s
i
b
l
e
an
d
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
them to do the same
on
pr
i
v
a
t
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Fu
r
t
h
e
r
St
u
d
y
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
FS
M
1 – Ad
h
e
s
i
v
e
s
an
d
Se
a
l
a
n
t
s
FS
M
2 – Re
a
c
t
i
v
i
t
y
in
Co
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
So
l
v
e
n
t
s
FS
M
3 – So
l
v
e
n
t
Cl
e
a
n
i
n
g
an
d
De
g
r
e
a
s
i
n
g
Op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
s
FS
M
4 – Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
Co
o
l
i
n
g
To
w
e
r
s
FS
M
5 – Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
Le
a
k
s
FS
M
6 – Wa
s
t
e
w
a
t
e
r
fr
o
m
Co
k
e
Cu
t
t
i
n
g
FS
M
7 – SO
2 fr
o
m
Re
f
i
n
e
r
y
Pr
o
c
e
s
s
e
s
FS
M
8 – Re
d
u
c
e
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
fr
o
m
LP
G
,
Pr
o
p
a
n
e
,
Bu
t
a
n
e
,
an
d
ot
h
e
r
Pr
e
s
s
u
r
i
z
e
d
Ga
s
e
s
Th
e
ma
j
o
r
i
t
y
of
th
e
Fu
r
t
h
e
r
St
u
d
y
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ap
p
l
y
to sources regulated
di
r
e
c
t
l
y
by
BA
A
Q
M
D
.
Be
c
a
u
s
e
BA
A
Q
M
D
is
th
e
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
i
n
g
agency, new and
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
so
u
r
c
e
s
of
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
s
in
th
e
City would be required to
co
m
p
l
y
wi
t
h
th
e
s
e
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
fu
r
t
h
e
r
st
u
d
y
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
in the 2010 Bay Area
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
.
GE
N
E
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GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-42 J U
Regional Growth Projections for VMT and Population and Employment
Future development under Land Use Alternative A would result in additional sources of criteria air
pollutants. Growth accommodated within the City would occur over a 20-year or longer time horizon. As a
result, BAAQMD’s approach to evaluating impacts from criteria air pollutants generated by long-term
growth associated with a plan is done in comparison to BAAQMD’s Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP)
rather than a comparison of emissions to project-level significance thresholds. This is because BAAQMD’s
AQMP plans for growth in the SFBAAB are based on regional population and employment projections
identified by ABAG and growth in VMT identified by VTA. Changes in regional, community-wide emissions
in Cupertino could affect the ability of BAAQMD to achieve the air quality goals identified in the AQMP.
Consequently, air quality impacts for a plan-level analysis are based on consistency with the regional growth
projections.
As previously discussed under subheading “Attain Air Quality Standards” above, the additional residential
population resulting from implementation of Land Use Alternative A would be within the regional
population projections (7,827 fewer residents) and would not exceed the regional employment projections
(667 less employees). Future growth under Land Use Alternative A would come incrementally over
approximately 26 years and would be guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of
the principal goals and objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area. Growth
identified under Land Use Alternative A would be consistent with the regional planning objectives
established for the Bay Area, which concentrates new development within infill sites. The General Plan
includes policies and strategies, that once adopted would ensure coordination with regional agencies on
regional planning initiatives. Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, would require the City
to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Supporting Strategy 3 would require the City to assess the potential for air pollution effects of
future land use and transportation planning, to ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of
improving air quality. The Circulation Element also includes policies regarding coordination with regional
transportation planning agencies. Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, would
require the City actively participate in developing regional approaches to meeting the transportation needs
of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley.
Citywide VMT estimates derived from assumed 2040 land use under Land Use Alternative A were
calculated by Hexagon Transportation Consultants, using the VTA model. Land uses in the City generate
897,419 VMT per day (10.47 miles per service population per day in 2013). Based on the future estimates
of VMT per person for Cupertino as projected by the VTA model for year 2040, 1,063,199 VMT per day
(11.02 miles per service population per day in 2040) would be generated in the City. Table 5.2-3 compares
the projected increase in service population with the projected increase in VMT. As shown in this table, daily
VMT in the Project Study Area would increase at a greater rate (18.5 percent) between 2013 and 2040 than
would the service population of the Project Study Area (12.6 percent). However, BAAQMD’s AQMP would
require that the VMT increase be less than or equal to the projected population increase of the project. Land
Use Alternative A would result in a higher VMT rate of growth than rate of service population growth.
Consequently, impacts for the City of Cupertino would be significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-43
TABLE 5.2‐3 COMPARISON OF THE CHANGE IN SERVICE POPULATION AND VMT FOR LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
Category 2013
2040
Land Use Alt. A Change
Percent
Change
Population 58,302 63,873 5,571 9.6%
Employment 27,387 32,593 5,206 19.0%
Total Service Population 85,689 96,466 10,777 12.6%
VMT/Day 897,419 1,063,199 165,780 18.5%
Notes: VMT is provided by Hexagon based on the VTA model.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 California Code of Regulations (CCR): Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, CCR: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, CCR: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
While Land Use Alternative A would support the primary goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan, the
buildout of Land Use Alternative A would conflict with the BAAQMD Bay Area Clean Air Plan goal for
community-wide VMT to increase at a slower rate compared to population and employment growth. The
rate of growth in VMT would exceed the rate of population and employment growth, resulting in a
substantial increase in regional criteria air pollutant emissions in Cupertino. Consequently, impacts are
significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-44 J U
Mitigation Measures
While the Land Use Alternative A would support the primary goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan, the
buildout of the Land Use Alternative A would conflict with the BAAQMD Bay Area Clean Air Plan goal for
community-wide VMT to increase at a slower rate compared to population and employment growth. The
rate of growth in VMT would exceed the rate of population and employment growth, resulting in a
substantial increase in regional criteria air pollutant emissions in Cupertino.
There are no additional mitigation measures available.
The Plan Bay Area aims to improve transportation efficiency and reduce regional infrastructure costs in the
region. Policies and development standards in the Land Use Alternative A would facilitate continued City
participation/cooperation with BAAQMD and VTA to achieve regional air quality improvement goals,
promote energy conservation design and development techniques, encourage alternative transportation
modes, and implement transportation demand management strategies. However, due to the level of growth
forecast in the city and the programmatic nature of the Land Use Alternative A, no additional mitigating
policies or development standards are available and impacts are considered significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
AQ-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would violate any air quality
standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation.
BAAQMD has identified thresholds of significance for criteria pollutant emissions and criteria air pollutant
precursors, including Reactive Organic Gases (ROG), Nitric Oxide (NO), PM10 and PM2.5. Development
projects below the significance thresholds are not expected to generate sufficient criteria pollutant emissions
to violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation.
According to BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines, long-range plans (e.g. general plan, redevelopment plans,
specific plans, area plans, community plans, regional plans, congestion management plans, etc.) present
unique challenges for assessing impacts. Due to the SFBAAB’s nonattainment status for ozone and PM and
the cumulative impacts of growth on air quality, these plans almost always have significant, unavoidable
adverse air quality impacts.
Operational Emissions
Although BAAQMD’s CEQA Air Quality Guidelines only require an emissions inventory of criteria air
pollutants for project-level analyses, an inventory of criteria air pollutants was generated for Land Use
Alternative A, since enough information regarding the buildout of the General Plan is available and can be
used to identify the magnitude of emissions from buildout of Land Use Alternative A. Table 5.2-4 identifies
the emissions associated with buildout of Land Use Alternative A. Subsequent environmental review of
development projects would be required to assess potential impacts under BAAQMD’s project-level
thresholds.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-45
TABLE 5.2‐4 COMMUNITY‐WIDE CRITERIA AIR POLLUTANTS GENERATED BY LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
Category
Criteria Air Pollutants (average lbs/day)
ROG NOx
Exhaust
PM10
Exhaust
PM2.5
Transportationa
64 364 124 54
Energyb
53 468 37 37
Area Sourcesc
1,472 752 54 54
Total 1,589 1,584 215 145
Change from 2013 Land Uses 167 1,327 182 122
BAAQMD Average Daily Project‐Level Threshold 54 54 82 54
Exceeds Average Daily Threshold Yes Yes Yes Yes
Total Tons per Year (tpy) 289 tpy 280 tpy 38 tpy 26 tpy
Change from 2013 Land Uses 30 tpy 23 tpy 5 tpy 3 tpy
BAAQMD Annual Project‐Level Threshold 10 tpy 10 tpy 15 tpy 10 tpy
Exceeds Annual Threshold Yes Yes No No
Note: Emissions may note total to 100 percent due to rounding.
a. Transportation. VMT is based on data provided by Hexagon, based on VTA model for Cupertino and modeled with EMFAC2011‐PL for running
exhaust emissions using 2035 emission rates (note: 2040 emissions rates are not available). VMT is multiplied by 347 days/year to account for reduced
traffic on weekends and holidays.
b. Energy. Based on three‐year average (2012–2010) of energy use provided by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and forecast based on Land Use
Alternative A housing units (residential), employment (non‐residential), and service population (City) projections. The nonresidential sector includes
direct access customers, county facilities, and other district facilities within the City boundaries.
c. Area Sources – Off‐road Emissions. Generated using OFFROAD2007. Estimated based on population (Landscaping), employment (Light Commercial
Equipment), and construction building permits (Construction) for Cupertino as a percentage of Santa Clara County. Annual construction emissions
forecasts are assumed to be similar to historic levels. Forecasts for landscaping equipment use are based on Land Use Alternative A population
projections, and for light commercial equipment use are based on Land Use Alternative A employment projections. Excludes BAAQMD‐permitted
sources. ROG emissions from consumer product use based on the emissions rates in CalEEMod 2013.2.2. Daily construction emissions multiplied by 347
days/year to account for reduced/limited construction activity on weekends and holidays. Excludes fugitive emissions from construction sites.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would reduce criteria air pollutants
from development projects to the maximum extent practicable. Within the Land Use/ Community Design
Element, Policy 2-2, Connections Between Special Areas, Employment Centers and the Community and
supporting strategies would require the city to provide strong connections between the mixed-use Special
Areas, employment centers, and the surrounding community. Policy 2-12, Long Term Growth Boundary,
would require the City to allow modification of the long-term growth boundary only in conjunction with a
comprehensive review of the City’s General Plan. Policy 2-22, Jobs/Housing Balance and supporting
strategies, require the City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Policy 2-26, Heart
of the City Special Area, and supporting strategies, require the City to create a positive and memorable
image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of mixed-use development; enhanced activity gateways and nodes; and
safe and efficient circulation and access for all modes of transportation. Policy 4-5, Pedestrian Access,
require the City to create pedestrian access between new subdivisions and school sites. Review existing
neighborhood circulation plans to improve safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists to school sites,
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-46 J U
including completing accessible network of sidewalks and paths. Within the Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability, Policy 5-3, Conservation and
Efficient Use of Energy Resources, Policy 5-4, Green Building Design, require the City to apply the
principles of sustainability, conserve energy, set standards for the design and construction of energy and
resource conserving/ efficient building (Green Building Design). Policy 5-6, Air Pollution Effects of
Existing Development, and supporting strategies require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of
existing development through citywide public education program regarding the implications of the Clean
Air Act expanding home occupations, increase planting of trees on City property and encourage the practice
on private property, and maintain City use of fuel-efficient and low polluting vehicles. Policy 5-7, Use of
Open Fires and Fireplaces, would require the City to discourage high pollution fireplace use. Within the
Circulation Element, Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, and supporting
strategies would require the City to participate actively in developing regional approaches to meeting the
transportation needs of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley and work closely with neighboring
jurisdictions and agencies responsible for roadways, transit facilities and transit services in Cupertino. Policy
4-3, Reduced Reliance on the Use of Single-Occupant Vehicles, and supporting strategies, require the City
to promote a general decrease in reliance on private, mostly single-occupant vehicles (SOV) by encouraging
attractive alternatives by encouraging the use of alternatives to the SOV including increased car-pooling, use
of public transit, bicycling and walking; TSM programs; employers to use the internet to reduce commute
travel; schools, particularly at the college and high school levels, to make maximum use of the internet to
limit the need to travel to and from the campus, new commercial developments to provide shared office
facilities, cafeterias, day-care facilities, lunchrooms, showers, bicycle parking, home offices, shuttle buses to
transit facilities and other amenities that encourage the use of transit, bicycling, walking or telecommuting
as commute modes to work. Provide pedestrian pathways and orient buildings to the street to encourage
pedestrian activity. Require the use the Cupertino Scene and other media to provide educational material on
alternatives to the SOV and to continue to work with the City Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee,
community groups and residents to eliminate hazards and barriers to bicycle and pedestrian transportation.
Despite implementation of the existing and amended Project policies and strategies, as identified in Table
5.2-1, criteria air pollutant emissions associated with buildout of Land Use Alternative A would generate a
substantial increase in emissions that exceeds the BAAQMD regional significance thresholds (ROG, NOx,
and PM10). Criteria air pollutant emissions would be generated from on-site area sources (e.g. landscaping
fuel, consumer products), vehicle trips generated by the project, and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for
cooking and heating). This is considered a significant impact.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 CCR: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, CCR: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, CCR: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-47
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Mitigation Measures
Future development under Land Use Alternative A would result in a substantial long-term increase in
criteria air pollutants over the 26-year General Plan horizon. Criteria air pollutant emissions would be
generated from on-site area sources (e.g. landscaping fuel, consumer products), vehicle trips generated by
the project, and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for cooking and heating).
The General Plan includes policies and strategies, listed above and under Impact AQ-1, that once adopted
would minimize emissions to the extent feasible; however, there are no additional measures available to
mitigate this impact due to the level of growth forecast in the city.
Compliance with the policies and strategies of the Land Use Alternative A would reduce operational
emissions from development under the Land Use Alternative A to the maximum extent practicable. In
addition, Mitigation Measure AQ-4a (for new sources of TACs), would also reduce criteria air pollutants
associated with light industrial land uses within the city. Future development in Cupertino could generate
operational emissions in excess of the BAAQMD significance thresholds. Operational emissions from future
development would be determined during project-level CEQA review. The total criteria air pollutant
emissions from operation of future development projects under Land Use Alternative A would be substantial
and would contribute to increases in concentrations of air pollutants, which could contribute to ongoing
violations of air quality standards. It should be noted that the identification of this program-level impact
does not preclude the finding of less-than-significant impacts for subsequent projects that comply with
BAAQMD screening criteria or meet applicable thresholds of significance. However, due to the
programmatic nature of the Land Use Alternative A, no additional mitigating policies are available, and the
impact is considered significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
Construction Emissions
BAAQMD’s plan-level guidelines do not require an evaluation of construction emissions for plan-level
projects. There is no proposed development under Land Use Alternative A at this time. Future development
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-48 J U
proposals under Land Use Alternative A would be subject to separate environmental review pursuant to
CEQA in order to identify and mitigate potential air quality impacts. Because the details regarding future
construction activities are not known at this time, including phasing of future individual projects,
construction duration and phasing, and preliminary construction equipment, construction emissions are
evaluated qualitatively in accordance with BAAQMD’s plan-level guidance.
Construction emissions associated with individual development projects under Land Use Alternative A
would generate an increase in criteria air pollutants and TACs. BAAQMD has developed project-level
thresholds for construction activities. Subsequent environmental review of future development projects
would be required to assess potential impacts under BAAQMD’s project-level thresholds. Construction
emissions from buildout of future projects within Cupertino would primarily be 1) exhaust emissions from
off-road diesel-powered construction equipment; 2) dust generated by demolition, grading, earthmoving,
and other construction activities; 3) exhaust emissions from on-road vehicles and 4) off-gas emissions of
ROGs from application of asphalt, paints, and coatings.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies, that once adopted would minimize impacts during
construction. Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects
of New Development, would require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development
projects and the impacts affecting new development. Strategy 2, Dust Control, directs the City to require
water application to non-polluting dust control measures during demolition and the duration of the
construction period. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-51, Rural Improvement
Standards in Hillside Areas, directs the City to require rural improvement standards in hillside areas to
preserve the rural character of the hillsides. Strategy 1, Mass Grading in New Construction, would require
the City to follow natural land contour and avoid mass grading in new construction, especially in flood
hazard or hillside areas. Grading large, flat areas shall be avoided.
Existing federal, State, and local regulations, and policies and strategies of Land Use Alternative A described
throughout this chapter protect local and regional air quality. Continued compliance with these regulations
and implementation of General Plan policies and strategies, would reduce construction-related impacts to
the extent feasible. However, if uncontrolled, fugitive dust (PM10 and PM2.5) levels downwind of actively
disturbed areas during construction or overlapping construction activities could violate air quality standards
or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation and expose sensitive receptors to
elevated concentrations of pollutants during construction activities. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 CCR: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, CCR: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, CCR: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-49
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Measure AQ-2a: As part of the City’s development approval process, the City shall
require applicants for future development projects to comply with the current Bay Area Air Quality
Management District’s basic control measures for reducing construction emissions of PM10.
Mitigation Measure AQ-2b: As part of the City’s development approval process the City shall
require applicants for future development projects that could generate emissions in excess of the Bay
Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMDs) current significance thresholds during
construction, as determined by project-level environmental review, when applicable, to implement the
current BAAQMD construction mitigation measures (e.g. Table 8-3 of the BAAQMD CEQA
Guidelines) or any construction mitigation measures subsequently adopted by the BAAQMD.
Mitigation Measure AQ-2a would require adherence to BAAQMD’s basic control measures for fugitive dust
control and would ensure impacts from fugitive dust generated during construction activities are less than
significant. However, applicants for future development in Cupertino could generate construction exhaust
emissions in excess of the BAAQMD significance thresholds. An analysis of emissions generated from the
construction of future projects under the General Plan would be required to evaluate emissions compared
to BAAQMD’s project-level significance thresholds during individual environmental review. It should be
noted that the identification of this program-level impact does not preclude the finding of less-than-
significant impacts for subsequent projects that comply with BAAQMD screening criteria or meet applicable
thresholds of significance. However, due to the programmatic nature of the Land Use Alternative A, no
additional mitigating policies are available and the impact is considered significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-50 J U
AQ-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would result in a cumulatively
considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the alternative
region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air
quality standard (including releasing emissions, which exceed quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors).
This section analyzes potential impacts related to air quality that could occur from the buildout associated
with Land Use Alternative A in combination with the regional growth within the air basin. The SFBAAB is
currently designated a nonattainment area for California and National O3, California and National PM2.5,
and California PM10 AAQS. At a plan-level, air quality impacts are measured by the potential for a project to
exceed BAAQMD’s significance criteria and contribute to the State and Federal nonattainment designations
in the SFBAAB. Any project that produces a significant project-level regional air quality impact in an area
that is in nonattainment adds to the cumulative impact. Pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines Section
15130(b)(1), cumulative impacts can be based on the growth projections in a local General Plan.
Consequently, the analysis in this chapter is Land Use Alternative A’s contribution to cumulative impacts.
Land Use Alternative A’s contribution to cumulative air quality impacts are identified under the impact
discussion in Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2. The analyses in these sections identify whether Land Use Alternative A
would conflict with the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan (Impact AQ-1) or generate a substantial increase in
criteria air pollutants (Impact AQ-2). Land Use Alternative A would result in a higher VMT rate of growth
than rate of service population growth and would generate a substantial increase in criteria air pollutant
emissions from construction and operational activities. Consequently, Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2 identified a
regional air quality impact as significant.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 CCR: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, CCR: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, CCR: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
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BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Mitigation Measures
There are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact.
Criteria air pollutant emissions generated by land uses within Land Use Alternative A would exceed the
BAAQMD thresholds (see AQ-2). Air quality impacts identified in Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2 are Land Use
Alternative A’s contribution to cumulative air quality impacts in the SFBAAB. Mitigation measures proposed
to reduce Project-related emissions would reduce impacts to the extent feasible. Due to the programmatic
nature of Land Use Alternative A, no additional mitigating policies or development standards are available.
Air pollutant emissions associated with Land Use Alternative A would result in a cumulatively considerable
contribution to air quality impacts, and Land Use Alternative A’s impacts would be significant and
unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
AQ-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would expose sensitive
receptors to substantial concentrations of air pollution.
Carbon Monoxide Hotspots
Areas of vehicle congestion have the potential to create pockets of Carbon Monoxide (CO) called hotspots.
These pockets have the potential to exceed the State one-hour standard of 20 parts per million (ppm) or the
eight-hour standard of 9.0 ppm. Because CO is produced in the greatest quantities from vehicle combustion
and does not readily disperse into the atmosphere, adherence to ambient air quality standards is typically
demonstrated through an analysis of localized CO concentrations. Hotspots are typically produced at
intersections, where traffic congestion is highest because vehicles queue for longer periods and are subject
to reduced speeds.
Land Use Alternative A includes policies and strategies to encourage bicycle, pedestrian, and transit use to
tie land use and transportation, which ensures consistency with VTA’s 2013 Congestion Management
Program. Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-4, Improve Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation
Throughout Cupertino, would require the City to Expand city-wide pedestrian and bicycle circulation in
order to provide improved recreation, mobility and safety. Supporting strategies include implementing the
Pedestrian Guidelines; considering developing safe, walk-able sidewalks and paths; promoting the Safe
Route to Schools program; providing additional time for pedestrians to cross streets and other pedestrian
improvements to roadways to make them more pedestrian friendly and less auto-centric; and implementing
the Bicycle Plan. Policy 4-6, Regional Trail Development, would require the City to continue to plan and
provide for a comprehensive system of trails and pathways consistent with regional systems, including the
Bay Trail, Stevens Creek Special Area and Ridge Trail and with the policies contained in the Land Use and
Community Design Element. Policy 4-7, Increased Use of Public Transit, would require the City to support
and encourage the increased use of public transit. Policy 4-9, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs, would
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require the City to balance the needs of pedestrians with desired traffic service. Where necessary and
appropriate, allow a lowered LOS standard to better accommodate pedestrians on major streets and at
specific intersections. Policy 4-12, Street Improvement Planning, would require the City to plan street
improvements such as curb cuts, sidewalks, bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash
containers as an integral part of a project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of
people and vehicles with the least possible disruption to the streetscape. Policy 4-13, Safe Parking Lots,
directs the City to require parking lots that are safe for pedestrians. Policy 4-15, School Traffic Impacts on
Neighborhoods, would require the City to minimize the impact of school drop-off, pick-up and parking on
neighborhoods.
As demonstrated by the policies above, Land Use Alternative A would be consistent with the VTA’s 2013
Congestion Management Program.5 In addition, the SFBAAB has been designated attainment under both the
national and California AAQS for CO. Under existing and future vehicle emission rates, a project would
have to increase traffic volumes at a single intersection by more than 44,000 vehicles per hour—or 24,000
vehicles per hour where vertical and/or horizontal mixing is substantially limited—in order to generate a
significant CO impact.6 Land Use Alternative A would not increase traffic volumes at affected intersections
by more than 44,000 vehicles per hour or 24,000 vehicles per hour where vertical and/or horizontal
mixing is substantially limited. Trips associated with Land Use Alternative A would not exceed the screening
criteria of the BAAQMD. Therefore, Land Use Alternative A would not have the potential to substantially
increase CO hotspots at intersections in Cupertino. Localized air quality impacts related to mobile-source
emissions would therefore be less than significant.
Toxic Air Contaminants – New Sources of Air Toxics
Various industrial and commercial processes (e.g. manufacturing, dry cleaning) allowed under the current
General Plan would be expected to release TACs. TAC emissions generated by stationary and point sources
of emissions within the SFBAAB are regulated and controlled by BAAQMD. Emissions of TAC from mobile
sources are regulated by statewide rules and regulations, not by BAAQMD, and have the potential to
generate substantial concentrations of air pollutants.
Existing land uses that have the potential to generate substantial stationary sources of emissions that would
require a permit from BAAQMD for emissions of TACs include industrial land uses, such as chemical
processing facilities, chrome-plating facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline-dispensing facilities. Emissions of
stationary source TACs would be controlled by BAAQMD through permitting and would be subject to
further study and health risk assessment prior to the issuance of any necessary air quality permits under
BAAQMD Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review, and Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air
Contaminants.
5 Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), 2013. 2013 Congestion Management Program http://www.vta.org/sfc/
servlet.shepherd/version/download/068A0000001Q7pt, October.
6 Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), 2011 (Revised), CEQA Air Quality Guidelines.
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Mobile sources of TACs are not regulated by BAAQMD. The primary mobile source of TACs within the City
of Cupertino is truck idling and use of off-road equipment at warehousing operations. Warehousing
operations could generate a substantial amount of Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) emissions from off-road
equipment use and truck idling. In addition, some warehousing and industrial facilities may include use of
transport refrigeration units (TRUs) for cold storage. New land uses in the City of Cupertino that are
permitted under Land Use Alternative A that use trucks, including trucks with TRUs, could generate an
increase in DPM that would contribute to cancer and non-cancer health risk in the SFBAAB. Impacts could
occur at facilities that permit 100 or more truck trips per day or 40 or more trucks with TRUs within 1,000
feet of a sensitive land use. These new land uses could be near existing sensitive receptors within and outside
the City of Cupertino. In addition, trucks would travel on regional transportation routes through the
SFBAAB contributing to near-roadway DPM concentrations.
To reduce community risk and hazards from placement of new sources of air toxics, implementation of the
General Plan policies and strategies would minimize impacts. Within the Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, would require the
City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Supporting strategies requiring the City to review projects for potential generation of toxic
air contaminants at the time of approval and confer with BAAQMD on controls needed if impacts are
uncertain and assess the potential for air pollution effects of future land use and transportation planning, and
ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of improving air quality. Policy 5-6, Air Pollution
Effects of Existing Development, require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of existing
development. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility,
would require the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic,
light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks,
landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans
that reduce incompatibilities between new development and existing residential neighborhoods through
measures such as: daylight planes for single-family development, minimum setback standards, landscape
screening, acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service areas away from residential uses and
limitations on hours of operation.
General Plan Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, and the accompanying Strategy 1, Toxic
Air Contaminants, would require that projects that generate new sources of TACs would be required to
reduce emissions. However, future projects would need to ensure that they could achieve BAAQMD’s
performance standards (ten in one million [10E-06], PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3
, or the
appropriate noncancer hazard index exceeds 1.0) and consequently, mitigation is needed to ensure that new
projects are evaluated in accordance with BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines. Community risk and hazard
impacts are significant.
Toxic Air Contaminants – Siting of Sensitive Receptors
Regulation of land uses falls outside California Air Resources Board (CARB) jurisdiction, CARB developed
and approved the Air Quality and Land Use Handbook: A Community Health Perspective (2005) to provide
guidance regarding the siting of sensitive land uses in the vicinity of freeways, distribution centers, rail
yards, ports, refineries, chrome-plating facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline-dispensing facilities. This
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guidance document was developed to assess compatibility and associated health risks when placing sensitive
receptors near existing pollution sources.
CARB’s recommendations on the siting of new sensitive land uses were based on a compilation of recent
studies that evaluated data on the adverse health effects ensuing from proximity to air pollution sources. The
key observation in these studies is that proximity to air pollution sources substantially increases both
exposure and the potential for adverse health effects. There are three carcinogenic toxic air contaminants
that constitute the majority of the known health risks from motor vehicle traffic, DPM from trucks, and
benzene and 1,3-butadiene from passenger vehicles. Table 4.2-9, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft
EIR, CARB Recommendations for Siting New Sensitive Land Uses, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft
EIR, shows a summary of CARB recommendations for siting new sensitive land uses within the vicinity of
air-pollutant sources. Recommendations in Table 4.2-9 are based on data that show that localized air
pollution exposures can be reduced by as much as 80 percent by following CARB minimum distance
separations.
Local air pollution sources in the City of Cupertino include mobile (roadways, including SR 85 and I-280)
and stationary/area sources (industrial, warehousing, commercial/retail, institutional, and residential land
uses). Figure 4.2-3, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, identifies several major areas of the city
that have the potential to expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations within 1,000
feet of the sources identified.
Stationary sources in Cupertino were identified using BAAQMD’s Stationary Source Screening Analysis
Tool. There are approximately 86 potential stationary sources in or near the City of Cupertino. Of these
sources, approximately 4 are industrial uses, 25 emergency diesel generators, 4 auto body repair and
refinishing facilities, 23 gas stations, 13 dry cleaners, and 17 miscellaneous sources (e.g. technology
companies, city services, printing shops, furniture refinishing, etc.).
High-volume roadways with over 10,000 vehicles per day were also mapped using the California
Environmental Health Tracking Program’s (CEHTP’s) Traffic Linkage web service and 2040 traffic
projections from the traffic analysis prepared by Hexagon Transportation Consultants.7 A total of 13
high volume roadways were identified within 1,000 feet of the City, including I-280 and SR 85.
The Union Pacific (UP) rail line is included in Figure 4.2-3 since UP uses diesel-fueled locomotives, which
are a source of TAC emissions. Figure 4.2-3 also identifies a 500-foot screening area around high-volume
roadways and a 200-foot screening area for rail lines. Because these are screening distances, refined analysis
of the effects from many of the high volume roadways and rail lines may show much lower potential TAC
exposure and smaller buffer zones. A refined analysis or site-specific health risk assessment should be
conducted for all new sensitive sources that are sited within this area to determine the actual health impact.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies, that once adopted would minimize emissions. Within the
Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-5: Air Pollution Effects of New Development,
7 California Environmental Health Tracking Program (CEHTP), 2013. Traffic linkage web service. http://www.ehib.org/
traffic_tool.jsp.
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would require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts
affecting new development. Supporting strategy 3 and 4 require the City to assess the potential for air
pollution effects of future land use and transportation planning, and ensure that planning decisions support
regional goals of improving air quality, and evaluate the relationship of sensitive receptors, such as
convalescent hospitals and residential uses, to pollution sources through the environmental assessment of
new development. Within the Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-28, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous
Materials, would require the City to assess future residents’ exposure to hazardous materials when new
residential development of childcare facilities are proposed in existing industrial and manufacturing areas.
Do not allow residential development if such hazardous conditions cannot be mitigated to an acceptable
level of risk. In addition, Land Use Element Policy 2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility, would require the
City to minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually
intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls,
limitations, site design and other appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans that reduce
incompatibilities between new development and existing residential neighborhoods through measures such
as: daylight planes for single-family development, minimum setback standards, landscape screening,
acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service areas away from residential uses and limitations on
hours of operation.
Implementation of General Plan Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, its accompanying
Strategy 4, Environmental Review, and Policy 6-28, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous Materials, would
reduce impacts from placement of sensitive receptors proximate to major sources of air pollution. However,
future projects proximate to major sources of air pollution (i.e. when within 1,000 feet of an industrial
area) would need to ensure that they could achieve BAAQMD’s performance standards (ten in one million
[10E-06], PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3
, or the appropriate noncancer hazard index exceeds 1.0)
and consequently, mitigation is needed to ensure that when new projects are evaluated in accordance with
BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Applicable Regulations
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
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BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Measure AQ-4a: Applicants for future non-residential land uses within the city that: 1)
have the potential to generate 100 or more diesel truck trips per day or have 40 or more trucks with
operating diesel-powered TRUs, and 2) are within 1,000 feet of a sensitive land use (e.g. residential,
schools, hospitals, nursing homes), as measured from the property line of Land Use Alternative A to the
property line of the nearest sensitive use, shall submit a health risk assessment (HRA) to the City of
Cupertino prior to future discretionary Project approval. The HRA shall be prepared in accordance with
policies and procedures of the State Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment and the Bay
Area Air Quality Management District. If the HRA shows that the incremental cancer risk exceeds ten
in one million (10E-06), PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3, or the appropriate noncancer hazard
index exceeds 1.0, the applicant will be required to identify and demonstrate that Best Available
Control Technologies for Toxics (T-BACTs) are capable of reducing potential cancer and noncancer risks
to an acceptable level, including appropriate enforcement mechanisms. T-BACTs may include but are
not limited to:
Restricting idling on-site.
Electrifying warehousing docks.
Requiring use of newer equipment and/or vehicles.
Restricting offsite truck travel through the creation of truck routes.
T-BACTs identified in the HRA shall be identified as mitigation measures in the environmental
document and/or incorporated into the site development plan as a component of Land Use
Alternative A.
Mitigation Measure AQ-4b: Applicants for residential and other sensitive land use projects (e.g.
hospitals, nursing homes, day care centers) in Cupertino within 1,000 feet of a major sources of TACs
(e.g. warehouses, industrial areas, freeways, and roadways with traffic volumes over 10,000 vehicle per
day), as measured from the property line of the project to the property line of the source/edge of the
nearest travel lane, shall submit a health risk assessment (HRA) to the City of Cupertino prior to future
discretionary Project approval. The HRA shall be prepared in accordance with policies and procedures
of the State Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) and the Bay Area Air Quality
Management District. The latest OEHHA guidelines shall be used for the analysis, including age
sensitivity factors, breathing rates, and body weights appropriate for children age 0 to 16 years. If the
HRA shows that the incremental cancer risk exceeds ten in one million (10E-06), PM2.5 concentrations
exceed 0.3 μg/m3, or the appropriate noncancer hazard index exceeds 1.0, the applicant will be
required to identify and demonstrate that mitigation measures are capable of reducing potential cancer
and non-cancer risks to an acceptable level (i.e. below ten in one million or a hazard index of 1.0),
including appropriate enforcement mechanisms. Measures to reduce risk may include but are not
limited to:
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Air intakes located away from high volume roadways and/or truck loading zones.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems of the buildings provided with appropriately sized
Maximum Efficiency Rating Value (MERV) filters.
Mitigation measures identified in the HRA shall be identified as mitigation measures in the
environmental document and/or incorporated into the site development plan as a component of Land
Use Alternative A. The air intake design and MERV filter requirements shall be noted and/or reflected
on all building plans submitted to the City and shall be verified by the City’s Planning Division.
Buildout of Land Use Alternative A could result in new sources of criteria air pollutant emissions and/or
toxic air contaminants near existing or planned sensitive receptors. General Plan policies would reduce
concentrations of TACs and PM2.5 generated by new development. Review of projects by BAAQMD for
permitted sources of air toxics (e.g. industrial facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline dispensing facilities)
would ensure health risks are minimized. Mitigation Measure AQ-4a would ensure that mobile sources of
TACs not covered under BAAQMD permits are considered during subsequent project-level environmental
review. Development of individual projects would be required to achieve the incremental risk thresholds
established by BAAQMD, and impacts would be less than significant. Placement of new sensitive
receptors near major sources of TACs and PM2.5 could expose people to substantial pollutant concentrations.
General Plan policies would reduce concentrations of criteria air pollutant emissions and air toxics
generated by new development. Mitigation Measure AQ-4b would ensure that placement of sensitive
receptors near major sources of air pollution would achieve the incremental risk thresholds established by
BAAQMD, and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
AQ-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would result in a cumulatively
considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project
region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air
quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors).
Sources of objectionable odors may occur within the City. BAAQMD’s Regulation 7, Odorous Substances,
places general limitations on odorous substances and specific emission limitations on certain odorous
compounds. In addition, odors are also regulated under BAAQMD Regulation 1, Rule 1-301, Public
Nuisance, which states that “no person shall discharge from any source whatsoever such quantities of air
contaminants or other material which cause injury, detriment, nuisance or annoyance to any considerable
number of persons or the public; or which endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of any such
persons or the public, or which causes, or has a natural tendency to cause, injury or damage to business or
property.” Under BAAQMD’s Rule 1-301, a facility that receives three or more violation notices within a 30
day period can be declared a public nuisance.
There are two types of odor impacts: 1) siting sensitive receptors near nuisance odors, and 2) siting new
sources of nuisance odors near sensitive receptors. Table 4.2-9, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft
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EIR, identifies screening distances from potential sources of objectionable odors within the SFBAAB. Odors
from these types of land uses are regulated under BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances.8
Siting Receptors Proximate to Odor Sources
Sensitive receptors, such as the residential uses associated with planned development under Land Use
Alternative A, may be placed within the distances to these sources specified in Table 4.2-10, in Chapter 4.2,
Air Quality, of this Draft EIR. In general, the City’s land use plan designates residential areas and
commercial/industrial areas of the City to prevent potential mixing of incompatible land use types, with the
exception of mixed-use areas that combine commercial with residential. BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous
Substances, would require abatement of any nuisance generated by an odor complaint. Implementation of
the Policy 2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility, would require the City to minimize potential conflicts with
residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense
developments with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other
appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans that reduce incompatibilities between new
development and existing residential neighborhoods through measures such as daylight planes for single-
family development, minimum setback standards, landscape screening, acoustical analysis, location and
orientation of service areas away from residential uses, and limitations on hours of operation.
Therefore, because existing sources of odors are required to comply with BAAQMD Regulation 7, impacts
to siting of new sensitive land uses would be less then significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Health & Safety Code, Section 114149
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Siting New Odor Sources
While not all sources in Table 4.2-10, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, are found in Cupertino
(e.g. rendering plants, confined animal facilities), commercial and industrial areas in the City of Cupertino
have the potential to include land uses that generate objectionable odors. Buildout permitted under Land
Use Alternative A could include new sources of odors, such as composting, greenwaste, and recycling
operations; food processing; chemical manufacturing; and painting/coating operations, because these are
permitted uses in the commercial and/or industrial areas in the City. Future environmental review could be
required for industrial projects listed in Table 4.2-8, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, to ensure
that sensitive land uses are not exposed to objectionable odors. BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous
Substances, would require abatement of any nuisance generating an odor complaint. Typical abatement
8 It should be noted that while restaurants can generate odors, these sources are not identified by BAAQMD as nuisance odors since
they typically do not generate significant odors that affect a substantial number people. Larger restaurants that employ five or more people are
subject to BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances.
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includes passing air through a drying agent followed by two successive beds of activated carbon to generate
odor-free air. Facilities listed in Table 4.2-10, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, would need to
consider measures to reduce odors as part of their CEQA review.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies, that once adopted would also reduce potential land use
incompatibilities regarding objectionable odors. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy
2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility, would require the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential
neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with
adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures.
Create zoning or specific plans that reduce incompatibilities between new development and existing
residential neighborhoods through measures such as: daylight planes for single-family development,
minimum setback standards, landscape screening, acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service
areas away from residential uses and limitations on hours of operation. Within the Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, would require the
City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Supporting strategies 3 and 4, require the City to assess the potential for air pollution effects
of future land use and transportation planning, and ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of
improving air quality, and evaluate the relationship of sensitive receptors, such as convalescent hospitals and
residential uses, to pollution sources through the environmental assessment of new development.
Consequently, review of projects using BAAQMD’s odor screening distances during future CEQA review
and compliance with BAAQMD Regulation 7 would ensure that odor impacts are minimized and are less
than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Health & Safety Code, Section 114149
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AQ-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to air quality.
As described under AQ-3, regional air quality impacts were identified as significant; therefore, in
combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, implementation of Land Use
Alternative A, even with mandatory compliance with applicable regulations, as well as, the mitigation
measures and General Plan policies outlined above, would result in a significant cumulative impact with
respect to air quality.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
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BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES 5.2.7.3
BIO-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have a substantial
adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on species
identified as a candidate, sensitive or special status species in local or
regional plans, policies, or regulations by the California Department of Fish
and Wildlife, or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Development and land use activities as a result of implementation of Land Use Alternative A would occur in
urbanized areas where special-status species are generally not expected to occur. The potential for
occurrence of special-status species in developed areas is generally very remote in comparison to
undeveloped lands with natural habitat that contain essential habitat characteristics for the range of species
known from the west Cupertino vicinity.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would minimize impacts to special-
status species associated with potential future development under Land Use Alternative A. Policy 5-9,
Development Near Sensitive Areas, would require the City to encourage the clustering of new development
away from sensitive areas such as riparian corridors, wildlife habitat and corridors, public open space
preserves and ridgelines. Additionally, new developments in these areas must have a harmonious
landscaping plan approved prior to development. Strategy 1, Riparian Corridor Protection, directs the City
to require riparian corridor protection through the development approval process. Policy 5-10, Landscaping
Near Natural Vegetation, would require the City to, per the City’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance,
Environmentally Preferable Procurement Policy, and the Parks & Recreation Green Policies, continue to
Emphasize drought tolerant and pest resistant native and non-invasive, nonnative, drought tolerant plants
and ground covers when landscaping properties near natural vegetation, particularly for control of erosion
from disturbance to the natural terrain. The strategy for this policy, Native Plants, would require the City to
encourage drought tolerant native and drought tolerant, noninvasive, non-native plants and trees, and
minimize lawn area in the hillsides. Policy 5-14, Recreation and Wildlife Trails, would require the City to
provide open space linkages within and between properties for both recreational and wildlife activities, most
specifically for the benefit of wildlife that is threatened, endangered, or designated as species of special
concern. Policy 5-18, Natural Water Bodies and Drainage Systems, would require the City to require that
site design respect the natural topography and drainages to the extent practicable to reduce the amount of
grading necessary and limit disturbance to natural water bodies and natural drainage systems caused by
development including roads, highways, and bridges. Strategy 1 for this policy, Volunteer Program, would
require the City to encourage volunteer organizations to help restore and clean creek beds in Cupertino to
reduce pollution and help return waterways to their natural state. Policy 5-21, Compact Development Away
from Sensitive Areas, would require the City to, where such measures do not conflict with other municipal
purposes or goals, encourage, via zoning ordinances, compact development located away from creeks,
wetlands, and other sensitive areas. Policy 5-27, Natural Water Courses, would require the City to retain
and restore creek beds, riparian corridors, watercourses and associated vegetation in their natural state to
protect wildlife habitat and recreation potential and assist groundwater percolation. Encourage land
acquisition dedication of such areas. Strategy 4 under Proposed Policy 2-20, Streetscape Design, would be
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amended to direct the City to use native trees when conducting new or replacement street tree planting.
This policy would serve to improve urban habitat for native and special-status species.
However, some special-status bird species such as Cooper’s hawk and white-tailed kite could utilize the
remaining riparian corridors and heavily wooded areas for nesting, dispersal and other functions when they
pass through urbanized areas. More common birds protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA)
may nest in trees and other landscaping on Land Use Alternative A Component locations. Given the remote
potential for occurrence of nesting birds at one or more of Land Use Alternative A Component locations
and possibility that nests could be inadvertently destroyed or nests abandoned as a result of construction
activities, this would be considered a potentially significant impact.
Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measure is recommended to minimize the possible loss or abandonment of nests of
birds protected under the federal MBTA and California Department of Fish and Game code:
Mitigation Measure BIO-1: Nests of raptors and other birds shall be protected when in active use,
as required by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the California Department of Fish and Game
Code. If construction activities and any required tree removal occur during the breeding season
(February 1 and August 31), a qualified biologist shall be required to conduct surveys prior to tree
removal or construction activities. Preconstruction surveys are not required for tree removal or
construction activities outside the nesting period. If construction would occur during the nesting season
(February 1 to August 31), preconstruction surveys shall be conducted no more than 14 days prior to
the start of tree removal or construction. Preconstruction surveys shall be repeated at 14-day intervals
until construction has been initiated in the area after which surveys can be stopped. Locations of active
nests containing viable eggs or young birds shall be documented and protective measures implemented
under the direction of the qualified biologist until the nests no longer contain eggs or young birds.
Protective measures shall include establishment of clearly delineated exclusion zones (i.e. demarcated
by identifiable fencing, such as orange construction fencing or equivalent) around each nest location as
determined by a qualified biologist, taking into account the species of birds nesting, their tolerance for
disturbance and proximity to existing development. In general, exclusion zones shall be a minimum of
300 feet for raptors and 75 feet for passerines and other birds. The active nest within an exclusion zone
shall be monitored on a weekly basis throughout the nesting season to identify signs of disturbance and
confirm nesting status. The radius of an exclusion zone may be increased by the qualified biologist if
project activities are determined to be adversely affecting the nesting birds. Exclusion zones may be
reduced by the qualified biologist only in consultation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The protection measures shall remain in effect until the young have left the nest and are foraging
independently or the nest is no longer active.
With incorporation of the above Mitigation Measure BIO-1, impacts to special-status and non-special
status bird species that are protected under the federal MBTA and CDFG Code would be less than
significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
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BIO-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have a substantial
adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community
type.
Development and land use activities consistent with Land Use Alternative A Components would occur in
urbanized areas where sensitive natural communities are absent; therefore, no impact would occur.
Significance Without Mitigation: No impact.
BIO-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have a substantial
adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act, through direct removal, filling, hydrological
interruption, or other means.
Development and land use activities consistent with Land Use Alternative A Components would occur in
urbanized areas where jurisdictional waters are absent. Indirect impacts to wetlands and jurisdictional other
waters include: 1) an increase in the potential for sedimentation due to construction grading and ground
disturbance, 2) an increase in the potential for erosion due to increased runoff volumes generated by
impervious surfaces, and 3) an increase in the potential for water quality degradation due to increased levels
in non-point pollutants. However, indirect impacts could be largely avoided through effective
implementation of Best Management Practices during construction and compliance with water quality
controls. As discussed in Section 4.8.1.1, Regulatory Framework, Chapter 4.9, Hydrology and Water
Quality, of this Draft EIR, water quality in stormwater runoff is regulated locally by the Santa Clara Valley
Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP), which includes provision C.3 of the Municipal
Regional Storm Water National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit (MRP), adopted
by the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). Adherence to these permit
conditions would require new development or redevelopment projects to incorporate treatment measures,
an agreement to maintain them, and other appropriate source control and site design features that reduce
pollutants in runoff to the maximum extent practicable. Many of the requirements involve low impact
development (LID) practices such as the use of onsite infiltration that reduce pollutant loading.
Incorporation of these measures can even improve on existing conditions.
In addition, future development would be required to comply with the NPDES Permit (Municipal Code
Chapter 9.18, Stormwater Pollution Prevention and Watershed Protection) and implement a construction
SWPPP that require the incorporation of BMPs to control sedimentation, erosion, and hazardous materials
contamination of runoff during construction.
The indirect water quality-related issues are discussed further in Chapter 4.9, Hydrology and Water Quality,
of this Draft EIR. As discussed in Impact HYDRO-1, water quality impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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BIO-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not interfere substantially
with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife
species, their wildlife corridors or nursery sites.
Development and land use activities consistent with Land Use Alternative A Components would occur in
urbanized areas where sensitive wildlife resources and important wildlife movement corridors are no longer
present because of existing development. Wildlife species common to urban and suburban habitat could be
displaced where existing structures are demolished and landscaping is removed as part of future
development, but these species are relatively abundant, and adapted to human disturbance. Compliance with
the General Plan policies and strategies would ensure that new structures and landscaping installed as part
of future development would provide replacement habitat for wildlife species adapted to urban areas.
Additionally, Strategy 4 under Proposed Policy 2-20, Streetscape Design, would require the City to use
native trees when conducting new or replacement street tree planting. This policy would serve to improve
urban habitat linkages for migration of native and special-status species. Potential impacts on the movement
of fish and wildlife, wildlife corridors, or wildlife nursery sites would be considered less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not conflict with any
local ordinances or policies protecting biological resources.
Development and land use activities consistent with Land Use Alternative A would occur in urbanized areas
where sensitive biological and wetland resources are generally considered to be absent, and no major
conflicts with the relevant policies or ordinances in the Cupertino General Plan and/or Municipal Code, as
described in section 4.3.1, Environmental Setting, Chapter 4.3, Biological Resources, of this Draft EIR, are
anticipated.
With adherence to the General Plan policies listed in impact discussion BIO-1, and the Protected Tree
Ordinance and Water Protection Ordinance, no conflicts with local plans and policies are anticipated, and
impacts would be considered less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-6 Implementation of the No Project alternative, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to biological resources.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative A within the Cupertino city
boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of
Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments
(ABAG). The geographic scope of the cumulative analysis for biological resources considers the surrounding
incorporated and unincorporated lands, and the region.
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The potential impacts of proposed development on biological resources tend to be site-specific, and the
overall cumulative effect would be dependent on the degree to which significant vegetation and wildlife
resources are protected on a particular site. This includes preservation of well-developed native vegetation
(native grasslands, oak woodlands, riparian woodland, etc.), populations of special-status plant or animal
species, and wetland features (including freshwater seeps and tributary drainages).
To some degree, cumulative development contributes to an incremental reduction in the amount of existing
wildlife habitat, particularly for birds and larger mammals. Habitat for species intolerant of human
disturbance can be lost as development encroaches into previously undeveloped areas, disrupting or
eliminating movement corridors and fragmenting the remaining suitable habitat retained within parks,
private open space, or undeveloped properties. New development in the region would result in further
conversion of existing natural habitats to urban and suburban conditions, limiting the existing habitat values
of the surrounding area. This could include further loss of wetlands and sensitive natural communities,
reduction in essential habitat for special-status species, removal of mature native trees and other important
wildlife habitat features, and obstruction of important wildlife movement corridors. Additional
development may also contribute to degradation of the aquatic habitat in the creeks throughout the region,
including the Project Study Area.
Grading associated with construction activities generally increases erosion and sedimentation, and urban
pollutants from new development would reduce water quality. However, most of the parcels within the
Project Component locations are already developed and occur within urbanized areas, thus avoiding or
diminishing effects on biological resources. With implementation of the Mitigation Measure BIO-1
identified above, Land Use Alternative A would not make a significant contribution to cumulative impacts to
biological resources. Therefore, Land Use Alternative A would result in a less-than-significant cumulative
impact on biological resources.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULTURAL RESOURCES 5.2.7.4
CULT-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have the potential to
cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical
resource as defined in Section 15064.5.
The types of cultural resources that meet the definition of historical resources under CEQA generally
consist of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant for their traditional, cultural,
and/or historical associations. Historical architectural resources may be impacted by development allowed
under the current General Plan. Archaeological deposits are addressed in CULT-2, and human remains are
addressed below in impact discussion CULT-4, below.
As shown on Figure 4.4-1 and listed in Section 4.4.2.3, Historic Sites Within Project Components, in
Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR, several historical resources are within the boundaries of
some Cultural Resource Site locations. Therefore, implementation of the Land Use Alternative A could have
the potential to directly impact cultural resources, by increasing commercial, office, hotel, and residential
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development allocations and providing for potential new development at the following Cultural Resource
Sites:
Special Areas Along Major Transportation Corridors
South De Anza Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 15 (Not evaluated for National and/or California Register eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 58 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Heart of the City Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 19 (National Register/California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 25 (Local Landmark, National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 31 (Ineligible for National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 32 (California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 42 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 43 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 44 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 57 (National Register/Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 59 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 60 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 64 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 65 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 67 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 689 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
North De Anza Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 66 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Study Areas
Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District)
Cultural Resource Site 6810 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
9 Cultural Resource Site 68 is also in Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District ) and Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Mall).
10 Cultural Resource Site 68 is also in Heart of the City Special Area and Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Mall).
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Other Special Areas including Residential and Non-Residential/Mixed-Use
Special Areas
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood
Cultural Resource Site 52 (California Register/Eligible for National Register)
Cultural Resource Site 53 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 54 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 62 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Bubb Road Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 55 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites
Cultural Resource Site 41 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 49 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 50 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Where Project Component locations listed above and their immediate surroundings do not contain
properties currently on the California Register or appear to be eligible for listing on the California Register,
as described above, impacts from implementation of this Alternative would result in less-than-significant
impacts on historical resources at these sites. However, for Project Component locations that contain
properties currently on the California Register or appear to be eligible for listing on the California Register
where the historical buildings might be demolished or materially altered to allow future development, this
Alternative would cause significant impacts. The following Project Component locations could be impacted
by future development under this Alternative:
Heart of the City Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 19 (National Register/California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 25 (Local Landmark, National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 32 (California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 57 (National Register/Commemorative Site)
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood
Cultural Resource Site 52 (California Register/Eligible for National Register)
Even if the historical resources were retained, future development under the Land Use Alternative A
permitted by the General Plan could cause a significant impact on the historical resource in question if the
new construction were incompatible with the Cultural Resources Site relationships that characterize the
existing property (for example, new construction which extends to all property lines where the historical
pattern is to have setbacks), or if the massing (height and bulk) of the new construction were incompatible
with the historical resource. Lastly, the design characteristics and materials of the new construction could
cause an impact on adjoining or nearby historical buildings (for example, a flat-roofed building with
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aluminum windows and a rain-screen wall finish next to a gable-roofed building with period-revival stucco
walls). Because the purpose of the Alternative is to allow denser new development and because the factors
described above which could impair the historic integrity of resources are generally more important with
larger and denser new construction, the impacts on historical resources could be significant.
However, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would minimize potential
impacts to historic resources. Policy 2-66, Historic Sites, would require future development projects under
Land Use Alternative A that would occur on Historic Sites to meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standard
for Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, and Restoring Historic
Buildings and provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the
historic significance of the resource(s). The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was
built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the
information. For public and quasi-public sites, the City shall coordinate with property owner to allow public
access of the historical site to foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-
owned sites, property owners should be encouraged, but not required, to provide access to the public.
Strategy 1 states that as part of the development review process for projects proposing to demolish or
significantly alter existing building(s) more than 45 years old, city staff shall determine if the project is
subject to completion of a site-specific historic resources study. Strategy 2 states that if it is determined that
a site-specific historic resources study is required, the study shall be prepared by a qualified architectural
historian meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Architecture or Architectural History. Site-
specific historic resource studies required under Strategy 1 could include a records search of the California
Historical Resources Information System, an intensive-level pedestrian field survey, an evaluation of
significance using standard National Register Historic Preservation and California Register Historic
Preservation evaluation criteria, and recordation of all identified historic buildings and structures on
California Department of Parks and Recreation 523 Site Record forms. These studies also provide a
description of the historic context and setting, methods used in the investigation, results of the evaluation,
and recommendations for management of identified resources. When applicable, the specific requirements
for inventory areas and documentation format required by certain agencies, such as the Federal Highway
Administration and California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), would also be required to be
adhered to. Where future development or adjacent properties are found to be eligible for listing on the
California Register, Policy 2-67, Commemorative Sites, would require that projects on Commemorative
Sites are required to provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tool on the site to explain the
historic significance of the resource. The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was
built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the
information. For public and quasi-public sites, the City shall coordinate with property owner to allow public
access to the historical site to foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-
owned sites, property owners should be encouraged, but not required, to provide access to the public.
Policy 2-68, Community Landmarks, would require that projects on Landmark Sites provide a plaque,
reader board and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the historic significance of the resource.
The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written description and
photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the information. Policy 2-69,
Historic Mention/Interest Sites, would require the City to encourage agencies that have jurisdiction over
the historical resource to encourage rehabilitation of the resource and provide public access to foster public
awareness and provide educational opportunities. These are sites outside the City’s jurisdictions, but have
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contributed to the City’s historic past. Policy 2-70, Incentives for Preservation of Historic Resources, would
require the City to utilize a variety of techniques to serve as incentives toward fostering the preservation
and rehabilitation of Historic Sites including; 1) allowing flexible interpretation of zoning ordinance not
essential to public health and safety. This could include flexibility as to use, parking requirements and/or
setback requirements; 2) using the California Building Code for rehabilitation of historic structures; 3) tax
rebates; and 4) financial incentives such as grants/loans to assist rehabilitation efforts. Policy 2-71,
Recognizing Historical Resources, states that an inventory of historically significant structures shall be
maintained and periodically updated by the City in order to promote awareness of these community
resources. Finally, Policy 2-71 would require the City to maintain an inventory of historically significant
structures and periodically updated in order to promote awareness of these community resources.
Furthermore, as part of Land Use Alternative A, Site 23, the Seven Springs Ranch, would be added to the
City’s list of Historically Significant Resources, which would further protect historic resources.
Potential impacts from future development on historical architectural resources could lead to: 1)
demolition, which by definition results in the material impairment of a resource’s ability to convey its
significance; 2) inappropriate modification, which may use incompatible materials, designs, or construction
techniques in a manner that alters character-defining features; and 3)Inappropriate new construction, which
could introduce incompatible new buildings that clash with an established architectural context. While any
of these scenarios, especially demolition and alteration, have the potential to change the historic fabric or
setting of an architectural resource such that the resource’s ability to convey its significance may be
materially impaired, implementation of the General Plan policies and strategies identified above, as well as
compliance with federal and State laws, as described in Section 4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, above,
would ensure future development would not be detrimental or injurious to property or improvements in
the vicinity and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have the potential to
cause substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to Section 15064.5.
Historical and pre-contact archaeological deposits that meet the definition of historical resources under
CEQA could be damaged or destroyed by ground-disturbing activities associated with future development
allowed under Land Use Alternative A. Should this occur, the ability of the deposits to convey their
significance, either as containing information important in prehistory or history, or as possessing traditional
or cultural significance to Native American or other descendant communities, would be materially impaired.
Although future development would be likely occur on sites and in areas either already developed, and/or in
close proximity to existing residential and residential-serving development, where development would have
a lesser impact on historical archeological resources, the potential remains that archaeological deposits
could be discovered because this Alternative would result in development on, or within the vicinity of,
several identified cultural resources as shown on Figure 4.4-1, and identified in Section 4.4.2.3, Historic
Sites Within Project Components, in Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR. In addition, the
City of Cupertino in its entirety has not been systematically surveyed, and much of the land remains
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unsurveyed. Approximately 25 percent of the land within the city boundary and existing Sphere of Influence
(SOI) has been surveyed for cultural resources. Therefore, it is possible that unrecorded Native American
prehistoric archaeological sites exist throughout the city that may have not been identified or surveyed,
including those that are buried under alluvial or fill soils due to the age of geologic deposits within the city,
which have the potential to contain prehistoric archaeological resources. Furthermore, prior to its
development, much of the land within Cupertino was comprised of ranches and/or vineyards. Therefore,
there is a potential for significant subsurface historical archaeological features, including hollow-filled
features (e.g. privies and wells) and other historic debris.
Although soils throughout the city and any potential historic features have been disturbed by farming
operations and grading and trenching for development of existing buildings and structures, future
development permitted under this Alternative could still contain subsurface archaeological deposits. Any
ground-disturbing activities related to future development permitted under this Alternative have the
potential to affect subsurface prehistoric archaeological resources that may be present. Based on the
significance criteria identified above, future development permitted under this Alternative would have a
significant impact on the environment if these ground-disturbing activities cause a substantial adverse change
in the significance of a historical archaeological resource. A substantial adverse change in the significance of
an historical archaeological resource would occur from its demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration
such that the significance of the resource would be materially impaired (CEQA Guidelines Section
15064.5(b)(1)).
The General Plan includes a policy and supporting strategies that would protect archaeologically sensitive
areas and would provide for the identification of archaeological deposits prior to actions that may disturb
such deposits. Policy 2-72, Archaeologically Sensitive Areas, protects archaeologically sensitive areas and
would provide for the identification of archaeological deposits prior to actions that may disturb such
deposits and would require the City to protect archaeologically sensitive areas, through supporting Strategy
1, which would require an investigation for development proposed in areas likely to be archaeologically
sensitive, such as along stream courses and in oak groves, to determine if significant archaeological resources
may be affected by the project. This strategy also would require appropriate mitigation measures in the
project design. In addition, Strategy 2 would require the City to ensure that City, State, and Federal historic
preservations laws, regulations, and Codes are enforced, including laws related to archaeological and
paleontological resources, to ensure the adequate protection of historic and pre-historic resources.
Therefore, compliance of the General Plan policy and strategies above, and with federal and State laws
described in Section 4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, above, potential impacts would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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CULT-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have the potential to
directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site, or
unique geologic feature.
A review of the University of California’s Museum of Paleontology’s (UCMP) fossil locality database was
conducted for the entire Project Study Area. No paleontological resources have been identified within the
Project Component locations; however, the presence of Pleistocene deposits that are known to contain
fossils indicates that the city could contain paleontological resources.
Consequently, future development permitted under Land Use Alternative A would have a significant effect
on the environment if it would directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site.
Although implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not in and of itself result in direct physical
development, future development as a result of implementation of this Alternative could result in
potentially significant impacts to a unique paleontological resources or site, or unique geologic feature.
Policy 2-72, Archaeologically Sensitive Areas, would require the City to protect paleontological sensitive
areas, through supporting Strategy 2, which would require the City to ensure that City, State, and Federal
historic preservations laws, regulations, and Codes are enforced, including laws related to archaeological
and paleontological resources, to ensure the adequate protection of historic and pre-historic resources.
Therefore, compliance Policy 2-72 along with compliance with federal and State laws described in Section
4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, would minimize the potential impact
related to directly or indirectly destroying a unique paleontological resource or site relating to construction
and other ground-disturbing activities associated with future development, would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have the potential to
disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal
cemeteries.
Human remains associated with pre-contact archaeological deposits could exist in throughout Cupertino,
and could be encountered at the time potential future development occurs. The associated ground-
disturbing activities, such as site grading and trenching for utilities, have the potential to disturb human
remains interred outside of formal cemeteries. Descendant communities may ascribe religious or cultural
significance to such remains, and may view their disturbance as an unmitigable impact. Disturbance of
unknown human remains would be a significant impact.
However, future development under this Alternative would be subject to federal, State, and local
regulations, such as the California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, Public Resources Code Section
5097.98, and the CCR Section 15064.5(e) (CEQA), as described in Section 4.4.1.1, Regulatory
Framework, of Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR, which state the mandated procedures of
conduct following the discovery of human remains.
Moreover, any human remains encountered during ground-disturbing activities associated with future
development under implementation of Land Use Alternative A would be subject to federal, State, and local
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regulations, such as the California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, Public Resources Code Section
5097.98, and the CCR Section 15064.5(e) (CEQA), which state the mandated procedures of conduct
following the discovery of human remains. According to the provisions in CEQA, if human remains are
encountered at the site, all work in the immediate vicinity of the discovery shall cease and necessary steps to
ensure the integrity of the immediate area shall be taken. The Santa Clara County Coroner shall be notified
immediately. The Coroner shall then determine whether the remains are Native American. If the Coroner
determines the remains are Native American, the Coroner shall notify the NAHC within 24 hours, who
will, in turn, notify the person the NAHC identifies as the MLD of any human remains. Further actions
shall be determined, in part, by the desires of the MLD. The MLD has 48 hours to make recommendations
regarding the disposition of the remains following notification from the NAHC of the discovery. If the MLD
does not make recommendations within 48 hours, the owner shall, with appropriate dignity, reinter the
remains in an area of the property secure from further disturbance. Alternatively, if the owner does not
accept the MLD’s recommendations, the owner or the descendent may request mediation by the NAHC. In
addition, Policy 2-73, Native American Burials, would require the City to protect Native American burial
sites and the supporting strategy would require that upon the discovery of such burials during construction,
project applicants shall take action prescribed by State law.
Therefore, with the mandatory regulatory procedures and compliance with the General Plan policy and
strategy described above, potential impacts related to the potential discovery or disturbance to any human
remains accidently unearthed during construction activities associated with future development as a result
of implementation of Land Use Alternative A would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in a
significant cumulative impacts with respect to cultural resources.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by this Alternative within the Cupertino city boundary and
SOI, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the
surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG). Potential future
development permitted under this Alternative, in conjunction with buildout of the city and the region, has
the potential to cumulatively impact historical resources. Such impacts could result from more intensive
land uses, incompatible site designs that impact the historical integrity of nearby historical buildings and
districts, and demolition of historical resources. Further, development within the city boundary also has the
potential to adversely affect archaeological resources, paleontological resources, and human remains
through their destruction or disturbance. Therefore, before mitigation, development allowed under this
Alternative, in combination with other future development in the region, has the potential to cause adverse
cumulative impacts to cultural resources due to their destruction or loss of integrity. However, the current
and amended General Plan policies and strategies, and mandatory regulation described in Impact
Discussions CULT-1 through CULT-4 and Section 4.4.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.4, Cultural
Resources, of this Draft EIR, would avoid impacts to such resources that would occur from development
and land use changes allowed under Land Use Alternative A. Therefore, past, present, and reasonably
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-72 J U
foreseeable future development in Cupertino is not expected to have a significant effect on cultural
resources.
Land Use Alternative A is not anticipated to have a significant impact on cultural resources. Therefore,
implementation of this Alternative would result in a less-than-significant contribution to cumulative
cultural resources impacts.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEOLOGY, SOILS, AND SEISMICITY 5.2.7.5
GEO-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not expose people or
structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss,
injury, or death involving surface rupture along a known active fault;
strong seismic ground shaking; seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction; and landslides.
To date, only one Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone has been mapped within Cupertino, as shown on
Figure 4.5-2 in Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, namely, the zone that flanks
the San Andreas Fault in the southwestern-most part of the city. However, as shown on Figure 4.5-2, none
of the Project Component Locations are located on this fault zone. Protections afforded by the Alquist-
Priolo Act, as well as Municipal Code ordinances, as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework,
of Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, that empower the City to require detailed
geotechnical reports in areas of suspected geological hazards, suggest that the potential for ground rupture
would be mitigated for future development or construction in the city. However, in the event of a large, MW
6.7 or greater seismic event, much of the city is projected to experience “strong” ground shaking, with the
most intense shaking forecast for the northeast part of Cupertino. Based on published studies and maps of
the city, the potential for seismically-induced liquefaction appears low and limited to narrow areas that flank
natural drainages such as Stevens, Regnart, and Calabazas Creeks. Future development permitted by Land
Use Alternative A would be concentrated on sites either developed and/or underutilized, and would not be
in proximity to these natural drainages. In contrast, the State-mapped hazards for seismic-induced landslides
appear to be extensive in the Foothills that occupy the southwest part of the Project Study Area.
Municipal Code ordinances that empower the City to require detailed soils and/or geotechnical reports in
areas of suspected geological hazards, would minimize the potential for seismically-induced landsliding for
future development or construction in the southwest part of the Project Study Area.
In addition to compliance with the Municipal Code building standards, Land Use Alternative A includes
General Plan policies and strategies that, once adopted, would minimize risk from seismic hazards. Policy
6-1, Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, would require the City to coordinate with Santa Clara
County and local agencies to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional LHMP for Santa Clara County. Strategy 1
would require the City to monitor and evaluate the success of the LHMP, including local strategies provided
in the Cupertino Annex and work with Santa Clara County to ensure that strategies are prioritized and
implemented through the Capital Improvement Program and provide adequate budget for on-going
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-73
programs and department operations. Strategy 2 would require the City to ensure that mitigation actions
identified in the LHMP are being incorporated into upcoming City sponsored projects, where appropriate.
Strategy 3 would require the City to support Santa Clara County in its role as the lead agency that prepares
and updates LHMP. Policy 6-2, Seismic/Geologic Review Process, would require the City to evaluate new
development proposals within mapped potential hazard zones using a formal seismic/geologic review
process and use Table 6-D, Technical Investigations Required based on Acceptable Risk, to determine the
level of review required. Table 6-D applies the land use activity category group provided in Table 6-C,
Acceptable Exposure to Risk Related to Various Land Uses, to determine what type of evaluation is
required. For example, Group 4, involuntary occupancy facilities such as schools, and high occupancy
buildings, such as large office or apartment buildings, would be required to comply with the CBC, complete
a soils and foundation investigation, determine ability of local soil conditions to support structures,
determine subsidence potential, faulting hazard, slope stability, and prepare a detailed Soils/Structural
evaluation to certify adequacy of normal CBC earthquake regulations or to recommend more stringent
measures. Strategy 1 would require any site with a slope exceeding 10 percent to reference the Landslide
Hazard Potential Zone maps of the State of California for all required geotechnical and structural analysis.
Strategy 2 would require that any residential facility that is being increased more than 50 percent in price or
physical size conform to all provisions of the current building code throughout the entire structure.
Owners of residential buildings with known structural defects, such as un-reinforced garage openings, “Soft
first story” construction, unbolted foundations, or inadequate sheer walls are encouraged to take steps to
remedy the problem and bring their buildings up to the current building code. Strategy 3 would require the
City to continue to implement geologic review procedure for Geologic Reports required by Chapter 19 of
the Municipal Code that incorporates these concerns into the development review process. Policy 6-3,
Public Education on Seismic Safety, would require the City to encourage various public education programs
to help residents reduce earthquake hazards. Strategy 1 would require developers to record a covenant to
tell future residents in high-risk areas about the risk and inform them that more information is in City Hall
records. This is in addition to the State requirement that information on the geological report is recorded on
the face of subdivision maps. Strategy 2 would require the City to publish and promote emergency
preparedness activities and drills. Use the Cupertino Scene and website to provide safety tips that may
include identifying and correcting household hazards, knowing how and when to turn off utilities, helping
family members protect themselves during and after an earthquake, recommending neighborhood
preparation activities, and advising residents to maintain an emergency supply kit containing first-aid
supplies, food, drinking water and battery operated radios and flashlight. Strategy 3 would require the City
to encourage participation in Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. Train neighborhood
groups to care for themselves during disasters. Assist in neighborhood drills. Strategy 4 would require the
City to actively cooperate with State agencies that oversee facilities for vulnerable populations, to ensure
that such facilities conform to all health and safety requirements, including emergency planning, training,
exercises and employee education. Strategy 5 would require the City to obtain translated emergency
preparedness materials and make them available to appropriate foreign language populations.
In addition, new development in Cupertino would be required to comply with the CBC and the City’s
Building Code, which contain criteria and standards that are designed to reduce ground rupture risks to
acceptable levels.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-74 J U
Through the implementation of the policies and strategies discussed above, along with compliance with the
CBC and City Building Code, as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.5,
Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, the City would mitigate the risks associated with fault rupture, and the
impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in substantial
soil erosion or the loss of topsoil.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil.
Substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil during construction could undermine structures and minor slopes,
and this could be a concern during buildout under Land Use Alternative A. However, compliance with
existing regulatory requirements, such as implementation of grading erosion control measures as specified
in the City of Cupertino’s Municipal Code, as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of
Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, would reduce impacts from erosion and the
loss of topsoil. Specifically, Section 16.08.110, would require the preparation of an Interim Erosion and
Sediment Control Plan, either integrated with the site map/grading plan or submitted separately, to the
Director of Public Works that calculates the maximum runoff from the site for the 10-year storm event and
describes measures to be undertaken to retain sediment on the site, a brief description of the surface runoff
and erosion control measures to be implemented, and vegetative measures to be undertaken.
In addition, Land Use Alternative A implements policies and supporting strategies to reduce soil erosion;
thereby minimizing impacts related to loss of topsoil. Policy 5-10, Landscaping Near Natural Vegetation,
implements the city’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance, Environmentally Preferable Procurement
Policy, and the Parks & Recreation Green Policies, and would require the City to continue to emphasize
drought tolerant and pest-resistant native and non-invasive, non-native, drought tolerant plants and ground
covers when landscaping public and private properties near natural vegetation, particularly for control of
erosion from disturbance to the natural terrain. Policy 5-19, Reduction of Impervious Surfaces, would
require the City to minimize storm water flow and erosion impacts resulting from development. Strategy 1
would require the City to change City codes to include a formula regulating how much paved surface is
allowable on each lot. This would include driveways and patios installed at the time of building or
remodeling. Strategy 2 would require the City to encourage the use of non-impervious materials for
walkways and driveways. If used in a City or quasi-public area, mobility and access for the disabled should
always take precedent. Strategy 3 would require the City to minimize impervious surface areas, minimizing
directly-connected impervious surfaces, maximizing onsite infiltration and using on-site retaining facilities.
Finally, Policy 6-47, Hillside Grading, would require the City to restrict the extent and timing of hillside
grading operation to April through October. Require performance bonds during the remaining time to
guarantee the repair of any erosion damage. All graded slopes must be planted as soon as practical after
grading is complete.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-75
Furthermore, the future development permitted by Land Use Alternative A would be concentrated on sites
either developed and/or underutilized, where development would result in limited soil erosion or loss of
topsoil. Therefore, adherence to existing regulatory requirements in the Municipal Code and
implementation of the proposed General Plan policies would ensure that impacts associated with substantial
erosion and loss of topsoil during the buildout of the Project Study Area would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in a significant
impact related to development on unstable geologic units and soils or
result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence,
liquefaction, or collapse.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in a significant impact related to development
on unstable geologic units and soils or result in on- or off-site landslide, later spreading, subsidence,
liquefaction, or collapse. Unstable geologic units are known to be present within the city. The impacts of
such unstable materials include, but may not be limited to subsidence where fill material may be highly
compressible. Such subsidence has been exacerbated by historical groundwater overdraft. Areas underlain by
thick colluvium or poorly engineered fill as well as low-lying areas may also be prone to subsidence. Future
development in Cupertino in areas limited to land flanking natural drainages such as Stevens, Regnart, and
Calabazas Creeks may be at greater risk for seismically-induced liquefaction. However, the Project
Component Locations where new development would occur is not in these areas. The future development
permitted by Land Use Alternative A would be concentrated on sites either developed and/or underutilized.
Compliance with Municipal Code requirements and General Plan policies outlined under Impact GEO-1
and GEO-2 above, which can require site-specific soils and/or geotechnical studies for land development or
construction in areas of potential geologic instability (as shown on the City’s geologic hazard maps), would
reduce the potential impacts associated with soil instability to a less-than-significant level.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not create substantial
risks to life or property as a result of its location on expansive soil, as
defined Section 1803.5.3 of the California Building Code, creating
substantial risks to life or property.
The pattern of expansive soils within the city is such that expansive soils (denoted by soils with high linear
extensibility and plasticity index) are most prevalent in the northeast part of Cupertino as shown in Figure
4.5-1 in Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity. However, future development in these areas would be
subject to the CBC regulations and provisions, as adopted in Chapter 16.04, Building Code, of the City’s
Municipal Code and enforced by the City during plan review prior to building permit issuance. The CBC
contains specific requirements for seismic safety, excavation, foundations, retaining walls, and site
demolition, and also regulates grading activities, including drainage and erosion control. General Plan
Policies 6-1, 6-2 and 6-3, and supporting strategies in the Safety Element outlined in Impact GEO-1 above,
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-76 J U
require the formal seismic and geologic evaluation of new development proposals that lie within mapped
potential hazard zones. Thus, compliance with existing regulations and policies would ensure that the
potential future development impacts permitted under Land Use Alternative A would be reduced to a less-
than-significant level.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to geology and soils.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative A within the Cupertino city
boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of
Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments
(ABAG). Potential cumulative geological impacts could arise from a combination of the development of
Land Use Alternative A together with future development in the immediate vicinity of the adjoining
jurisdictions.
Only one active earthquake fault (i.e. the San Andreas Fault Zone) has been mapped by the State of
California within the city, which is approximately 5 miles from Land Use Alternative A Component
Locations, the risk of primary fault rupture on occupied buildings is judged low. Furthermore, new
development under Land Use Alternative A would be subject to CBC and Municipal Code requirements, as
described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this
Draft EIR. Compliance with these building code requirements would, to the maximum extent practicable,
reduce cumulative, development-related impacts that relate to seismically-induced ground-shaking,
liquefaction, and expansive soils.
Similarly, compliance with the General Plan policy and strategies, as listed above in impact discussion GEO-
1 of this chapter, as well as the City’s Ordinances pertaining to excavation and grading (i.e. Chapter 16.08,
Excavations, Grading and Retaining Walls) including implementation of an Interim Erosion Control Plan and
various control measures, would minimize the cumulative impacts associated with soil erosion and loss of
topsoil to the maximum extent practicable. Therefore, Land Use Alternative A would result in a less-than-
significant cumulative impact with respect to geology, soils, and seismicity.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-77
GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 5.2.7.6
GHG-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not directly or indirectly
generate GHG emissions that may have a significant impact on the
environment.
Development under Land Use Alternative A would contribute to global climate change through direct and
indirect emissions of GHG from transportation sources, energy (natural gas and purchased energy), water
use and wastewater generation, waste generation, and other, off-road equipment (e.g. landscape equipment,
construction activities).
Community-Wide GHG Emissions – Land Use Alternative A
BAAQMD has not adopted a 2040 per capita GHG threshold for operation-related GHG emissions.
However, a 2040 efficiency target was derived for Land Use Alternative A based on the long-term GHG
reduction target for 2050 interpolated from Executive Order S-03-05, which is an 80 percent reduction
from 1990 levels by 2020. This methodology is consistent with CARB’s recommendations in the Update to
the Scoping Plan.11 The 2040 efficiency target would be 3.1 MTCO2e per service population for the city.
The community-wide GHG emissions inventory for the Land Use Alternative A compared to existing
conditions is included in Table 5.2-5.
The GHG emissions in the City of Cupertino under Land Use Alternative A would decrease by 25,736
MTCO2e in 2040 compared to existing conditions. As shown in Table 5.2-5, community-wide GHG
emissions in the city at 2040 would also meet the 3.1 MTCO2e threshold, which is based on the long-term
GHG reduction goal of Executive Order S-03-05. Impacts from GHG emissions within the City of
Cupertino would be less than significant for long-term growth anticipated under Land Use Alternative A.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would reduce GHG emissions from
development projects to the maximum extent practicable. Within the Community Design Element, Policy
2-2, Connections Between Special Areas, Employment Centers and the Community, would require the City
to provide strong connections between the major mixed-use Special Areas, employment centers, and the
surrounding community. Supporting strategies would require the City to enhance pedestrian and bicycle
connections from the major mixed-use Special Areas and employment centers to surrounding
neighborhoods and provide pedestrian and bicycle paths through new and redevelopment projects to
enhance public access to and through the development. Policy 2-12, Long Term Growth Boundary, would
require the City to allow modification of the long-term growth boundary only in conjunction with a
comprehensive review of the City’s General Plan. Policy 2-22, Jobs/Housing Balance, would require the
City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Policy 2-26, Heart of the City Special
Area, would require the City to create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of
11 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2014, Proposed First Update to the Climate Change Scoping Plan: Building on the
Framework, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/scopingplan/2013_update/draft_proposed_first_update.pdf, February
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-78 J U
mixed-use development; enhanced activity gateways and nodes; and safe and efficient circulation and access
for all modes of transportation. Supporting strategies 1 and 2 require the City to maintain the Heart of the
City Specific Plan as the primary implementation tool for the City to use for this area and evaluate options
on Stevens Creek Boulevard to improve the pedestrian environment by proactively managing speed limits
and traffic signal synchronization. Policy 4-5, Pedestrian Access, require the City to create pedestrian access
between new subdivisions and school sites. Review existing neighborhood circulation plans to improve
safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists to school sites, including completing accessible network of
sidewalks and paths. Supporting strategies require the City to implement the recommendations of the
Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation Plan and trail projects, evaluate any safety, security and privacy impacts
and mitigations associated with trail development and work with affected neighborhoods in locating trails.
Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability, would
require the City to incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s planning and development
system. Supporting strategies include requiring the City to appoint a Task Force or Commission to develop
an appropriate comprehensive annual Sustainability and Resource Plan for the City to write and keep
current the annual Tactical Plan and measurement of City-wide programs to help achieve the Environmental
Resources and Sustainability section of the General Plan; identify and evaluate resources, technologies,
products and the lifecycle cost of ownership for each recommended; and work with City staff to evaluate
the financial feasibility of the recommendations. The City would be required to encourage community
gardens, which provide a more livable environment by controlling physical factors such as temperature,
noise, and pollution. In addition, the City is required to adopt and implement energy policies and
implementation programs that include the City’s planning and regulatory process; conduct a Citywide
sustainability inventory in order to identify issues, opportunities and planning alternatives; and prepare and
implement a comprehensive sustainability energy plan as a part of the City’s General Plan. The supporting
energy plan would be designed to include the following:
Reduction of energy consumption.
Reduction of fossil fuels.
Use of renewable energy resources whenever possible.
Improve City-wide water usage and conservancy.
Reduce water consumption by the City.
Promote residential and business water reduction.
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6
—
—
— —
MT
C
O
2e/
S
e
r
v
i
c
e
Po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
(S
P
)
3.
6
3.
7
2.
9
—
—
— —
BA
A
Q
M
D
GH
G
20
4
0
Pl
a
n
‐Le
v
e
l
Th
r
e
s
h
o
l
d
—
—
3.
1
—
—
— —
Ac
h
i
e
v
e
s
BA
A
Q
M
D
GH
G
Pl
a
n
‐Le
v
e
l
Th
r
e
s
h
o
l
d
?
—
—
Ye
s
—
—
— —
No
t
e
s
:
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
ma
y
no
t
to
t
a
l
to
10
0
pe
r
c
e
n
t
du
e
to
ro
u
n
d
i
n
g
.
BA
U
:
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
as
us
u
a
l
;
AB
A
U
:
ad
j
u
s
t
e
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
as
us
u
a
l
.
Ba
s
e
d
on
GW
P
s
in
th
e
IP
C
C
Se
c
o
n
d
As
s
e
s
s
m
e
n
t
Re
p
o
r
t
.
a.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
VM
T
is
ba
s
e
d
on
da
t
a
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
by
He
x
a
g
o
n
ba
s
e
d
on
VT
A
mo
d
e
l
fo
r
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
an
d
mo
d
e
l
e
d
wi
t
h
EM
F
A
C
2
0
1
1
‐PL
fo
r
ru
n
n
i
n
g
ex
h
a
u
s
t
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
us
i
n
g
20
3
5
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
rates (note: 2040
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
ra
t
e
s
ar
e
no
t
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
)
.
VM
T
is
mu
l
t
i
p
l
i
e
d
by
34
7
da
y
s
/
y
e
a
r
to
ac
c
o
u
n
t
fo
r
re
d
u
c
e
d
tr
a
f
f
i
c
on
we
e
k
e
n
d
s
an
d
ho
l
i
d
a
y
s
.
b.
En
e
r
g
y
.
Ba
s
e
d
on
3‐ye
a
r
av
e
r
a
g
e
(2
0
1
2
–
2
0
1
0
)
of
en
e
r
g
y
us
e
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
by
Pa
c
i
f
i
c
Ga
s
& El
e
c
t
r
i
c
(P
G
&
E
)
an
d
fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
ba
s
e
d
on
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A ho
u
s
i
n
g
un
i
t
s
(r
e
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
)
,
employment (non‐residential),
an
d
se
r
v
i
c
e
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
(C
i
t
y
)
pr
o
j
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
Th
e
no
n
r
e
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
se
c
t
o
r
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
di
r
e
c
t
ac
c
e
s
s
cu
s
t
o
m
e
r
s
,
co
u
n
t
y
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
an
d
ot
h
e
r
di
s
t
r
i
c
t
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
wi
t
h
i
n
th
e
ci
t
y
bo
u
n
d
a
r
i
e
s
.
PG
&
E
energy based on PG&E’s
ca
r
b
o
n
in
t
e
n
s
i
t
y
fo
r
20
2
0
.
Th
e
20
2
0
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
ra
t
e
is
es
t
i
m
a
t
e
d
by
PG
&
E
.
It
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
33
pe
r
c
e
n
t
RP
S
,
Ca
p
‐an
d
‐Tr
a
d
e
,
an
d
ot
h
e
r
re
g
u
l
a
t
o
r
y
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
s
fo
r
HG
W
P
ga
s
e
s
such as reductions of SF6.
Di
r
e
c
t
ac
c
e
s
s
en
e
r
g
y
ba
s
e
d
on
th
e
eG
R
I
D
ca
r
b
o
n
in
t
e
n
s
i
t
y
an
d
as
s
u
m
e
s
33
pe
r
c
e
n
t
RP
S
.
c.
Wa
s
t
e
.
Ba
s
e
d
on
CA
R
B
La
n
d
f
i
l
l
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
To
o
l
Ve
r
s
i
o
n
1_
2
0
1
3
.
Wa
s
t
e
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
ba
s
e
d
on
3‐ye
a
r
av
e
r
a
g
e
(2
0
1
2
‐20
1
0
)
wa
s
t
e
co
m
m
i
t
m
e
n
t
fo
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
of
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
ob
t
a
i
n
e
d
fr
o
m
CalRecycle and forecast
ba
s
e
d
on
th
e
se
r
v
i
c
e
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
.
As
s
u
m
e
s
75
pe
r
c
e
n
t
of
fu
g
i
t
i
v
e
GH
G
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
ar
e
ca
p
t
u
r
e
d
wi
t
h
i
n
th
e
la
n
d
f
i
l
l
'
s
La
n
d
f
i
l
l
Ga
s
Ca
p
t
u
r
e
Sy
s
t
e
m
wi
t
h
a la
n
d
f
i
l
l
ga
s
ca
p
t
u
r
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
of 75 percent. The
La
n
d
f
i
l
l
ga
s
ca
p
t
u
r
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
is
ba
s
e
d
on
th
e
CA
R
B
’
s
LG
O
P
,
Ve
r
s
i
o
n
1.
1
.
d.
Wa
t
e
r
/
W
a
s
t
e
w
a
t
e
r
.
In
c
l
u
d
e
s
fu
g
i
t
i
v
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
wa
s
t
e
w
a
t
e
r
pr
o
c
e
s
s
i
n
g
an
d
en
e
r
g
y
as
s
o
c
i
a
t
e
d
wi
t
h
wa
t
e
r
/
w
a
s
t
e
w
a
t
e
r
tr
e
a
t
m
e
n
t
an
d
co
n
v
e
y
a
n
c
e
.
Th
e
ne
t
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
wa
t
e
r
use was based on the Water
Su
p
p
l
y
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
i
o
n
pr
e
p
a
r
e
d
fo
r
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A.
e.
Ar
e
a
So
u
r
c
e
s
– Of
f
‐Ro
a
d
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
Ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
d
us
i
n
g
OF
F
R
O
A
D
2
0
0
7
.
Es
t
i
m
a
t
e
d
ba
s
e
d
on
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
(L
a
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
)
,
em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
(L
i
g
h
t
Co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
)
,
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
building permits
(C
o
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
)
fo
r
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
as
a pe
r
c
e
n
t
a
g
e
of
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Co
u
n
t
y
.
An
n
u
a
l
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
s
ar
e
as
s
u
m
e
d
to
be
si
m
i
l
a
r
to
hi
s
t
o
r
i
c
le
v
e
l
s
.
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
s
fo
r
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
equipment use are based on
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
pr
o
j
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
,
an
d
fo
r
li
g
h
t
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
us
e
ar
e
ba
s
e
d
on
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
A em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
Ex
c
l
u
d
e
s
BA
A
Q
M
D
pe
r
m
i
t
t
e
d
sources. Daily construction
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
mu
l
t
i
p
l
i
e
d
by
34
7
da
y
s
/
y
e
a
r
to
ac
c
o
u
n
t
fo
r
re
d
u
c
e
d
/
l
i
m
i
t
e
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
ac
t
i
v
i
t
y
on
we
e
k
e
n
d
s
an
d
ho
l
i
d
a
y
s
.
Ex
c
l
u
d
e
s
fu
g
i
t
i
v
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
si
t
e
s
.
f.
Ba
s
e
d
on
:
Ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
se
r
v
i
c
e
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
85
,
6
8
9
pe
o
p
l
e
(5
8
,
3
0
2
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
27
,
3
8
7
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
)
.
20
4
0
se
r
v
i
c
e
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
96
,
4
6
6
pe
o
p
l
e
(6
3
,
8
7
3
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
32
,
5
9
3
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
)
.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-80 JUNE 18, 2014
Policy 5-3, Conservation and Efficient Use of Energy Resources, would require the City to encourage the
maximum feasible conservation and efficient use of electrical power and natural gas resources for new and
existing residences, businesses, industrial and public uses. Supporting strategies require the City to do the
following:
Prepare and implement a comprehensive energy management plan for all applicable public facilities,
equipment and procurement and construction practices.
Review and evaluate applicable City codes, ordinances, and procedures for inclusion of local, state and
federal policies and standards that promote the conservation and efficient use of energy and for
consistency with the goal of sustainability. Change those that will promote energy efficiency without a
punitive effect.
Using life cycle cost analysis, identify City assets for replacement with more energy efficient
replacements.
implement an incentive program to include such items as reduced permit fees for building projects that
exceed Title 24 requirements. Promote other incentives from the State, County and Federal
Governments for improving energy efficiency by posting information regarding incentive, rebate and
tax credit programs on the City’s web site. Let’s make learning about this easy and help those interested
get started!
Encourage the use of energy cogeneration systems through the provision of an awareness program
targeting the larger commercial and industrial users and public facilities.
Ensure designer, developers, applicants and builders meet California Title 24 Energy Efficient Building
Standards and encourage architects, building designers and contractors to exceed “Title 24”
requirements for new projects through the provision of incentives. Encourage either passive solar
heating and/or dark plaster interior with a cover for swimming pools, cabanas and other related
accessory uses where solar access is available. Encourage the use of alternative renewable sources where
feasible, and develop energy audits or subvention programs.
Require, as conditions of approval for new and renovated projects, the provision of energy
conservation/efficiency applications.
Encourage alternative, energy efficient transportation modes such as “clean” multi-modal public transit,
car and vanpooling, flexible work hours, and pedestrian and bicycle paths.
Policy 5-4, Green Building Design, would require the City to set standards for the design and construction
of energy and resource conserving/efficient building (Green Building Design). Supporting strategies require
the City to prepare and implement “Green Building” standards for all major private and public projects that
ensure reduction in energy consumption for new development through site and building design. The City
would be required to participate in and encourage building energy audits, where feasible, for commercial,
industrial and city facilities and convey to the business and industrial communities that energy
conservation/efficiency is, in the long term, economically beneficial. PG&E also offers energy evaluation
tools and services free of charge. In addition, the City would prepare a “Green Buildings” evaluation guide
for use by the city staff when reviewing projects, train appropriate staff in the design principles, costs and
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-81
benefits of energy conservation/efficient buildings and landscape design, conduct and/or participate in
“Green Buildings” informational seminars and workshops to include people involved in the design and
construction industry, land development, real estate sales, lending institutions, landscaping and design, the
building maintenance industry and prospective project applicants, and become a regular feature article in
the Cupertino Scene, do media outreach to the Courier and the Guide (San Jose Mercury) tape the
Sustainable Building and other conservation courses, or seminars and broadcast them on the City Channel as
well, and make them available at the Library. Policy 5-6, Air Pollution Effects of Existing Development,
would require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of existing development. Supporting strategies
require the City to establish a Citywide public education program regarding the implications of the Clean
Air Act and provide information on ways to reduce and control emissions; provide information about
carpooling and restricting physical activities on “Spare the Air” high-pollution days, expand the allowable
home occupations in residentially zoned properties to reduce the need to commute to work, increase
planting of trees on City property and encourage the practice on private property, maintain City use of fuel-
efficient and low polluting vehicles, and work with County to monitor and influence improvement of
emissions and dust from the Hanson and Stevens Creek Quarries on the West end of the City. Policy 5-7,
Use of Open Fires and Fireplaces, would require the City to discourage high pollution fireplace use. Policy
5-28, Interagency Coordination, actively pursue interagency coordination for regional water supply
problem solving. Policy 5-29, Coordination of Local Conservation Policies with Regionwide Conservation
Policies, would require the City to Coordinate city-wide water conservation efforts with the Santa Clara
Valley Water District efforts being conducted on a regional scale. Many of these conservation efforts are
outlined in the Santa Clara Valley Water District Drought Plan and Countywide Water Use Reduction
program. Policy 5-30, Public Information Effort, would require the City to provide the public information
regarding water conservation/efficiency techniques, including how paving and other impervious surfaces
impact runoff. Policy 5-31, Water Use Efficiency, would require the City to promote efficient use of water
throughout the City. Policy 5-38, Commercial/Industrial Recycling, would require the City to expand
existing commercial and industrial recycling programs to meet and surpass AB 939 waste stream reduction
goals. Policy 5-39, Residential Recycling, would require the City to streamline the residential curbside
recycling program in the next decade. Include all city-wide residential zoning districts in the curbside
recycling program. Policy 5-40, On-Site Garbage and Organic Collection Area Dedication, would require
the City to modify existing, and require for new developments, on-site waste facility requirements for all
multi-family residential, commercial and industrial land uses to have adequate covered area for a
combination of garbage, recycling and organic collection. Supporting strategy, Ordinance Revisions, would
require the City to revise existing ordinances relative to on-site waste facility requirements for all multi-
family residential, commercial and industrial zoning districts to require that a minimum of 50 percent of
garbage area be dedicated to recycling. Policy 5-41, Public Education, would require the City to promote
the existing public education program regarding the reduction of solid waste disposal and recycling.
Supporting strategy, Recycling Program Information, would require the City to use the local television
channel, the Cupertino Scene, the Internet and other available media to provide information to the residents
about the objectives of the City’s recycling program. Policy 5-42, City Recycling and Organic Diversion,
would require the City to encourage City staff to recycle and compost at all City facilities. Policy 5-43, Re-
distribution of Reusable Materials, would require the City to re-distribute reusable materials, e.g. garage
sales, materials exchange through public education, encourage residents and businesses. Policy 5-44, Reuse
of Building Materials, would require the City to encourage the recycling and reuse of building materials,
including recycling materials generated by the demolition and remodeling of buildings.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-82 JUNE 18, 2014
Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, would
require the City to participate actively in developing regional approaches to meeting the transportation
needs of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley. Work closely with neighboring jurisdictions and agencies
responsible for roadways, transit facilities and transit services in Cupertino. Supporting strategies require
the City to minimize regional traffic impacts on Cupertino by supporting regional planning programs to
manage the jobs-housing balance throughout Santa Clara County and the Silicon Valley; ensure that
connections are provided to enable travelers to transition from one mode of transportation to another, e.g.
bicycle to bus ;support the expansion of the VTA’s regional bus transit system and extension of bus and/or
light rail rapid transit into the Stevens Creek and De Anza Special Areas to fulfill the “spoke and wheel”
transit system designed to serve all of Santa Clara County. Policy 4-3, Reduced Reliance on the Use of
Single-Occupant Vehicles, require the City to promote a general decrease in reliance on private, mostly
single-occupant vehicles (SOV) by encouraging attractive alternatives. Supporting strategies require the City
to encourage the use of alternatives to the SOV including increased car-pooling, use of public transit,
bicycling and walking; encourage TSM programs for employees in both the public and private sectors by
including preferred parking for carpools, providing bus passes, encouraging compressed workweeks, and
providing incentives and rewards for bicycling and walking; encourage employers to use the internet to
reduce commute travel. Encourage schools, particularly at the college and high school levels, to make
maximum use of the internet to limit the need to travel to and from the campus; encourage new
commercial developments to provide shared office facilities, cafeterias, day-care facilities, lunchrooms,
showers, bicycle parking, home offices, shuttle buses to transit facilities and other amenities that encourage
the use of transit, bicycling, walking or telecommuting as commute modes to work. Provide pedestrian
pathways and orient buildings to the street to encourage pedestrian activity; provide space on appropriate
streets for bus turnouts, or safe and accessible bike lanes or pedestrian paths; use the Cupertino Scene and
other media to provide educational material on alternatives to the SOV; continue to work with the City
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, community groups and residents to eliminate hazards and barriers
to bicycle and pedestrian transportation.
Applicable Regulations
California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32)
Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act (SB 375)
Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Targets (Executive Order S-3-05)
Clean Car Standards – Pavely (AB 1493)
Renewable Portfolio Standards (SB 1078)
California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939)
California Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law (AB 341)
California Advanced Clean Cars CARB/ Low-Emission Vehicle Program – LEV III (Title 13 CCR)
Heavy-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Measure (Title 17 CCR)
Low Carbon Fuel Standard (Title 17 CCR)
California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 (AB 1881)
California Water Conservation Act of 2009 (SBX7-7)
Statewide Retail Provider Emissions Performance Standards (SB 1368).
Airborne Toxics Control Measure to Limit School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools (13 CCR 2480)
Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit Diesel-Fuel Commercial Vehicle Idling (13 CCR 2485)
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-83
In-Use Off-Road Diesel Idling Restriction (13 CCR 2449)
Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6)
California Green Building Code (Title 24, Part 11)
Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 20)
The General Plan establishes the framework for future growth and development in Cupertino. A General
Plan does not directly result in development without additional approvals. Before any development can
occur in the City, it is required to be analyzed for conformance with the General Plan, zoning requirements,
and other applicable local and state requirements; comply with the requirements of CEQA; and obtain all
necessary clearances and permits. As identified in Table 5.2-5, Land Use Alternative A would achieve the
2035 performance criteria, which would ensure that the City is on a trajectory that is consistent with the
statewide GHG reduction goals. Consequently, long-ter m GHG emissions impacts of Land Use Alternative
A are less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GHG-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not conflict with an
applicable plan, policy, or regulation of an agency adopted for the purpose
of reducing the emissions of GHGs.
The following plans have been adopted and are applicable for development in the City of Cupertino:
CARB’s Scoping Plan
In accordance with AB 32, CARB developed the Scoping Plan to outline the State’s strategy to achieve 1990
level emissions by year 2020. To estimate the reductions necessary, CARB projected statewide 2020 BAU
GHG emissions (i.e. GHG emissions in the absence of statewide emission reduction measures). CARB
identified that the State as a whole would be required to reduce GHG emissions by 28.5 percent from year
2020 BAU to achieve the targets of AB 32.12The revised BAU 2020 forecast shows that the state would have
to reduce GHG emissions by 21.6 percent from BAU without implementation of the Pavley GHG emissions
standards for passenger vehicles and the 33 percent renewable portfolio standard (RPS) for electricity, or
15.7 percent from the adjusted baseline (i.e. with Pavley and 33 percent RPS).13
Statewide strategies to reduce GHG emissions include the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), California
Appliance Energy Efficiency regulations; California Building Standards (i.e. CALGreen and the 2008
Building and Energy Efficiency Standards); California Renewable Energy Portfolio standard (33 percent
RPS); changes in the corporate average fuel economy standards (e.g. Pavley I and Pavley II); and other
measures that would ensure the State is on target to achieve the GHG emissions reduction goals of AB 32.
12 California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2008. October. Climate Change Proposed Scoping Plan, a Framework for Change.
13 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2012. Status of Scoping Plan Recommended Measures, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/
scopingplan/status_of_scoping_plan_measures.pdf.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-84 JUNE 18, 2014
Statewide GHG emissions reduction measures that are being implemented over the next six years would
reduce the City’s GHG emissions.
As shown in Table 5.2-5, the City would achieve the 2020 target of AB 32 for cities within the San Francisco
Bay Area Air Basin (SFBAAB). New residential and non-residential construction in the City would achieve
the current building and energy efficiency standards. The new buildings would be constructed in
conformance with CALGreen, which would require high-efficiency water fixtures for indoor plumbing and
water efficient irrigation systems. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
MTC’s Plan Bay Area
To achieve ABAG’s/MTC’s sustainable vision for the Bay Area, the Plan Bay Area land use concept plan for
the region concentrates the majority of new population and employment growth in the region in PDAs.
PDAs are transit-oriented, infill development opportunity areas within existing communities. Overall, well
over two-thirds of all regional growth by 2040 is allocated within PDAs. PDAs are expected to
accommodate 80 percent (or over 525,570 units) of new housing and 66 percent (or 744,230) of new
jobs.14 In Cupertino, Plan Bay Area includes the Santa Clara VTA – City Cores, Special Areas & Station Areas
PDA.15
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would encourage use of alternative
modes of travel, which is also consistent with Plan Bay Area’s vision. Within the Circulation Element, Policy
4-3, Reduced Reliance on the Use of Single-Occupant Vehicles, would require the City to promote a general
decrease in reliance on private, mostly single-occupant vehicles (SOV) by encouraging attractive
alternatives. Supporting strategies require the City to do the following:
Encourage the use of alternatives to the SOV including increased car-pooling, use of public transit,
bicycling and walking.
Encourage TSM programs for employees in both the public and private sectors by including preferred
parking for carpools, providing bus passes, encouraging compressed workweeks, and providing
incentives and rewards for bicycling and walking.
Encourage employers to use the internet to reduce commute travel. Encourage schools, particularly at
the college and high school levels, to make maximum use of the internet to limit the need to travel to
and from the campus.
Encourage new commercial developments to provide shared office facilities, cafeterias, day-care
facilities, lunchrooms, showers, bicycle parking, home offices, shuttle buses to transit facilities and other
amenities that encourage the use of transit, bicycling, walking or telecommuting as commute modes to
work. Provide pedestrian pathways and orient buildings to the street to encourage pedestrian activity.
Provide space on appropriate streets for bus turnouts, or safe and accessible bike lanes or pedestrian
paths.
14 Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2013. Plan Bay Area: Strategy
for a Sustainable Region, July 18.
15 Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2013. Plan Bay Area,
http://geocommons.com/maps/141979.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-85
Use the Cupertino Scene and other media to provide educational material on alternatives to the SOV.
Continue to work with the City Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, community groups and
residents to eliminate hazards and barriers to bicycle and pedestrian transportation.
Policy 4-4, Improve Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Throughout Cupertino, would require the City
Expand city-wide pedestrian and bicycle circulation in order to provide improved recreation, mobility and
safety. Supporting strategies require the City to implement the projects recommended in the Pedestrian
Guidelines including consider developing a quarter-mile grid of safe, walk-able sidewalks and paths to
provide pedestrian access among residential, shopping, recreation and business locations and work with the
School Districts to promote the Safe Route to Schools program. The City is also required to provide
additional time for pedestrians to cross streets at appropriate intersections, consider various improvements
to roadways to make them more pedestrian friendly and less auto-centric, encourage all public construction
and private development projects to submit a Pedestrian/Bicycle Impact Statement to assess the impact of
the project on pedestrians and bicycles. The City is required to implement Bicycle Plan, encourage the
developers of major new or remodeled buildings to include secure interior and/or fully weather protected
bicycle parking, and provide bicycle parking in multi-family residential developments and in commercial
districts as required under Section 19.100.040 of the City code. Policy 4-6, Regional Trail Development,
would require the City to continue to plan and provide for a comprehensive system of trails and pathways
consistent with regional systems. Policy 4-7, Increased Use of Public Transit, would require the City to
support and encourage the increased use of public transit. Policy 4-9, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs,
would require the City to balance the needs of pedestrians with desired traffic service. Policy 4-12, Street
Improvement Planning, would require the City to plan street improvements such as curb cuts, sidewalks,
bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash containers as an integral part of a project to
ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles with the least possible
disruption to the streetscape.
Policy 2-1, Focus Development in Mixed-Use Special Areas, which would encourage new growth in the
PDA mixed-use corridor, is consistent with Plan Bay Area’s vision. Policy 2-1 focuses new development in
major mixed-use corridors in the City by allowing higher intensity development and increased building
heights where appropriate in designated corridors, gateways, sub areas and nodes. As identified by the list of
policies that encourage use of alternative modes of transportation and Policy 2-1 that focuses new growth in
mixed-use areas, Land Use Alternative A is consistent with the objectives of Plan Bay Area for growth within
this PDA. Therefore, Land Use Alternative A is consistent with land use concept plan for Cupertino
identified in Plan Bay Area. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32)
Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act (SB 375)
Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Targets (Executive Order S-3-05)
Clean Car Standards – Pavely (AB 1493)
Renewable Portfolio Standards (SB 1078)
California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939)
California Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law (AB 341)
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
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California Advanced Clean Cars CARB/ Low-Emission Vehicle Program – LEV III (Title 13 CCR)
Heavy-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Measure (Title 17 CCR)
Low Carbon Fuel Standard (Title 17 CCR)
California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 (AB 1881)
California Water Conservation Act of 2009 (SBX7-7)
Statewide Retail Provider Emissions Performance Standards (SB 1368).
Airborne Toxics Control Measure to Limit School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools (13 CCR 2480)
Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit Diesel-Fuel Commercial Vehicle Idling (13 CCR 2485)
In-Use Off-Road Diesel Idling Restriction (13 CCR 2449)
Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6)
California Green Building Code (Title 24, Part 11)
Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 20)
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A policies as well as compliance with applicable State standards
listed and described above would ensure that consistency with state and regional GHG reduction planning
efforts; therefore, this impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GHG-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to GHG emissions.
As described above, GHG emissions related to Land Use Alternative A are not confined to a particular air
basin but are dispersed worldwide. Therefore, the analysis in GHG-1 addresses cumulative impacts.
As identified above, the General Plan is a regulatory document that sets the framework for future growth
and development. A General Plan does not directly result in development without further approvals. Before
any development can occur in the city, it is required to be analyzed for conformance with the General Plan,
zoning requirements, and other applicable local and state requirements; comply with the requirements of
CEQA; and obtain all necessary clearances and permits. Furthermore, existing federal, State, and local
regulations and policies, including the City’s draft CAP, described throughout this chapter serve to reduce
community-wide GHG emissions. Continued compliance with these regulations and implementation of
existing policies, including applicable policies, would reduce impacts. As identified in Impact GHG-1, Table
5.2-5 shows that Land Use Alternative A would achieve the 2035 performance criteria, which would ensure
that the City is on a trajectory that is consistent with the statewide GHG reduction goals. Consequently,
cumulative GHG emissions impacts of Land Use Alternative A are less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-87
HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 5.2.7.7
HAZ-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport,
use, or disposal of hazardous materials.
While commercially available hazardous materials (e.g. fuels, solvents, paints, and some consumer
electronics) would be used at various new construction sites and may generate small amounts of hazardous
waste, the waste would be handled in accordance with applicable federal, State, and local laws, policies, and
regulations, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and
Hazardous Materials. As a general matter, Land Use Alternative A has office, commercial and residential land
uses and, therefore, would not include manufacturing or research processes that generate substantial
quantities of hazardous materials. The SCCFD and City of Cupertino Building Division coordinate the
review of building permits to ensure that hazardous materials requirements are met prior to construction,
including required separation between hazardous materials and sensitive land uses, and proper hazardous
materials storage facilities. Any businesses that transport, generate, use, and/or dispose of hazardous
materials within the Project Study Area would also be subject to existing hazardous materials regulations,
such as those implemented by HMCD, and hazardous materials permits from the SCCFD. The SCCFD also
conducts inspections for fire safety and hazardous materials management of businesses and multi-family
dwellings, in accordance with the City of Cupertino Hazardous Materials Storage Ordinance.
In addition, the General Plan contains the following policies and strategies that, once adopted, would
further ensure that new development would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment
through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. Within the Health and Safety
Element, Policy 6-27, Hazardous Materials Storage and Disposal, directs the City to require the proper
storage and disposal of hazardous materials to prevent leakage, potential explosions, fire, or the release of
harmful fumes. Policy 6-28, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous Materials, requires the City to assess
future residents’ exposure to hazardous materials when new residential development or childcare facilities
are proposed in existing industrial and manufacturing areas and does not allow residential development or
childcare facilities if such hazardous conditions cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level of risk. Policy 6-
29, Electromagnetic Fields, requires the City to consider potential hazards from Electromagnetic Fields in
the project review process. Policy 6-30, Alternative Products, requires the City to continue to encourage
residents and businesses to use non- and less-hazardous products, especially less toxic pest control products,
to slow the generation of new hazardous waste requiring disposal through the county-wide program. Policy
6-31, Household Hazardous Wastes, requires the City to continue to support and facilitate for residences
and businesses a convenient opportunity to properly dispose of hazardous waste. Policy 6-32, Hazardous
Waste Dumping, requires the City to maintain information channels to the residential and business
communities about the illegality and danger of dumping hazardous material and waste in the storm drain
system or in creeks.
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Compliance, with applicable federal, State, and local laws and regulations regarding handling of these
materials, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous
Materials and the General Plan policies listed above would ensure the risks associated with release of
hazardous materials into the environment from the routine transport, use, storage, or disposal of hazardous
materials following construction would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable
upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials
into the environment.
Land Use Alternative A would facilitate new development, including residential, mixed-use, and commercial
uses, within Cupertino. Some of the new development could occur on properties that possibly are
contaminated and inactive, undergoing evaluation, and/or undergoing corrective action, as indicated in
Table 4.7.1. Construction of new buildings and improvements could have the potential to release potentially
hazardous soil-based materials into the environment during site grading and excavation operations.
Likewise, demolition of existing structures could potentially result in release of hazardous building materials
(e.g. asbestos, lead paint, etc.) into the environment. Use of hazardous materials on newly developed
properties after construction could potentially include cleaning solvents, fertilizers, pesticides, and other
materials used in the regular maintenance and operation of the proposed uses. Compliance with applicable
federal, State, and local laws and regulations regarding handling of these materials described in Section
4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, the General Plan
policies listed under Impact HAZ-1, and compliance with the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan and
Best Management Practices required for Land Use Alternative A (see Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water
Quality, for additional detail), would ensure future development under Land Use Alternative A would not
create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and
accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment; therefore, impacts
would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would emit hazardous emissions
or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school.
Several public and private schools, including preschools, elementary, middle, and high schools, are located
within one-quarter mile of known hazardous wastes sites that may be redeveloped as part of Land Use
Alternative A. The location of schools in proximity to each Project Component location is described in
detail in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-89
The SCCFD and City of Cupertino Building Division coordinate the review of building permits to ensure
that hazardous materials use requirements are met prior to construction, including required separation
between hazardous materials and sensitive land uses, and proper hazardous materials storage facilities. In
addition, Land Use Alternative A could use hazardous materials. Future development under Land Use
Alternative A would be required by the HMCD and the City of Cupertino to store, manage, and dispose of
the materials in accordance with the Unified Program.
While compliance with existing regulations described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of
Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials along with the General Plan policies listed under Impact
HAZ-1 would reduce the potential for school children to be exposed to hazardous materials during both
construction and operation from future development permitted under Land Use Alternative A, impacts
would be potentially significant.
However, implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-4a and HAZ-4b, as discussed in Impact HAZ-4
below, would reduce the potential for school children to be exposed to hazardous materials from future
development permitted under Land Use Alternative A to a less-than-significant level.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would be located on a site which
is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment.
As shown on Table 4.7-2, the search of the DTSC’s EnviroStor Database revealed five sites, and the
GeoTracker database search revealed 27 LUST sites, on or within close proximity to the Project
Component locations. The status of the LUST sites that are listed as “Completed-Case Closed,” indicates that
appropriate response actions have been completed to the satisfaction of the San Francisco Bay RWQCB or
the Santa Clara Water District and, in recent years, the Santa Clara County DEH, as the local oversight
agency. The status of the Hazardous Site Number 23 (Tosco #11220), in the Heart of the City Special Area,
a listed LUST site, is “Open-Verification Monitoring,” indicating that remediation phases are essentially
completed and a monitoring program is occurring to confirm successful completion of cleanup at the Site.
The on-going monitoring at this Hazardous Material Site is currently being reviewed by Santa Clara County
DEH with RWQCB oversight.
Out of the 32 Hazardous Materials Sites, the following have a status that indicates additional action is
required to address the hazardous materials at these locations. These are described as follows:
Hazardous Site 1 (Cupertino Village Cleaners), located in the North Vallco Special Area, North Vallco
Gateway and Study Area 5 (Cupertino Village) is listed as “voluntary cleanup,” which means, in this case,
the Site has a confirmed release of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) that has impacted site soil, and the project
proponents have requested the DTSC to oversee evaluation, investigation, and/or cleanup activities and
have agreed to provide coverage for the DTSC’s costs. Based on the potential human health risk to
future tenants of the former dry cleaners tenant space, the DTSC has concluded that remediation (soil
excavation or soil vapor extraction [SVE]) would be required at this location.
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Hazardous Site 2 (Anderson Chevrolet Dealership), located in the Heart of the City Special Area and
North Crossroads Node, is listed as sites where the DTSC has determined that a Preliminary
Endangerment Assessment (PEA) or other evaluation is required.
Hazardous Site 3 (Four-Phase System), located in the South De Anza Special Area, is listed as
undergoing closure.
Hazardous Site 5 (Acrian Incorporated), located in the Bubb Road Special Area, is listed as sites where
the DTSC has determined that a Preliminary Endangerment Assessment (PEA) or other evaluation is
required.
Hazardous Site 13 (PG&E), located in Study Area 3 (PG&E), is a listed as LUST site. Case closure for
the Site was issued by the Santa Clara County DEH on June 29, 2005. However, Santa Clara County
DEH has determined that residual contamination in soil remains at the Site that could pose an
unacceptable risk under certain site development activities such as site grading, excavation, or the
installation of water wells. Therefore, the impact of the disturbance of any residual contamination or the
installation of water well(s) in the vicinity of the residual contamination must be assessed and
appropriate action taken so that there is no significant impact to human health, safety, or the
environment. This could necessitate additional sampling, health risk assessment, and mitigation
measures.
Because hazardous materials are known to be present in soil, soil gas, and/or groundwater due to past land
uses at certain sites that may be redeveloped as part of Land Use Alternative A, the direct contact,
inhalation, or ingestion of hazardous materials could potentially cause adverse health effects to construction
workers and future site users. The severity of health effects would depend on the contaminant(s),
concentration, use of personal protective equipment during construction, and duration of exposure. The
disturbance and release of hazardous materials during earthwork activities, if present, could pose a hazard to
construction workers, nearby receptors, and the environment and impacts could be potentially significant.
Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measures are recommended to minimize potential impacts related to sites with
known hazardous materials:
Mitigation Measure HAZ-4a: Construction at the sites with known contamination shall be
conducted under a project-specific Environmental Site Management Plan (ESMP) that is prepared in
consultation with the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) or the Department of Toxic
Substances Control (DTSC), as appropriate. The purpose of the ESMP is to protect construction
workers, the general public, the environment, and future site occupants from subsurface hazardous
materials previously identified at the site and to address the possibility of encountering unknown
contamination or hazards in the subsurface. The ESMP shall summarize soil and groundwater analytical
data collected on the project site during past investigations; identify management options for excavated
soil and groundwater, if contaminated media are encountered during deep excavations; and identify
monitoring, irrigation, or other wells requiring proper abandonment in compliance with local, State,
and federal laws, policies, and regulations.
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The ESMP shall include measures for identifying, testing, and managing soil and groundwater suspected
of or known to contain hazardous materials. The ESMP shall: 1) provide procedures for evaluating,
handling, storing, testing, and disposing of soil and groundwater during project excavation and
dewatering activities, respectively; 2) describe required worker health and safety provisions for all
workers potentially exposed to hazardous materials in accordance with State and federal worker safety
regulations; and 3) designate personnel responsible for implementation of the ESMP.
Mitigation Measure HAZ-4b: For those sites with potential residual contamination in soil, gas, or
groundwater that are planned for redevelopment with an overlying occupied building, a vapor intrusion
assessment shall be performed by a licensed environmental professional. If the results of the vapor
intrusion assessment indicate the potential for significant vapor intrusion into an occupied building,
project design shall include vapor controls or source removal, as appropriate, in accordance with
regulatory agency requirements. Soil vapor mitigations or controls could include vapor barriers, passive
venting, and/or active venting. The vapor intrusion assessment and associated vapor controls or source
removal can be incorporated into the ESMP (Mitigation Measure HAZ-4a).
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not impair
implementation of, or physically interfere with, an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan.
As discussed previously, the City of Cupertino Office of Emergency Services is responsible for coordinating
agency response to disasters or other large-scale emergencies in the City of Cupertino with assistance from
the Santa Clara County Office of Emergency Services and the SCCFD. The Cupertino EOP establishes
policy direction for emergency planning, mitigation, response, and recovery activities within the city. The
Cupertino EOP addresses interagency coordination, procedures to maintain communications with county
and State emergency response teams, and methods to assess the extent of damage and management of
volunteers.
In addition, the General Plan contains policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure that new
development would not conflict with emergency operations in Cupertino. Within the Health and Safety
Element, Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, directs the City to coordinate with Santa
Clara County and local agencies to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
(LHMP) for Santa Clara County. This policy also includes three new strategies that would direct the City to
enact this Policy. Strategy 1, Monitoring and Budgeting, requires the City to monitor and fund the LHMP
program. Strategy 2, Mitigation Incorporation, requires the City to ensure that individual projects and
developments incorporate appropriate LHMP mitigation measures. Strategy 3, Hazard Mitigation Plan
Amendments and Updates, supports Santa Clara County’s efforts as the lead agency for the LHMP. Through
Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, and its attendant strategies, the City of Cupertino
would actively facilitate regional emergency response plans. Policy 6-8, Early Project Review, requires the
City to involve the Fire Department in the early design stage of all projects requiring public review to assure
Fire Department input and modifications as needed. Policy 6-9, Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection
Guidelines, requires the City to coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new guidelines for fire
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protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-10, Fire Prevention and Emergency
Preparedness, requires the City to promote fire prevention and emergency preparedness through city-
initiated public education programs, through the government television channel, the Internet and the
Cupertino Scene. Policy 6-13, Roadway Design, requires the City to involve the Fire Department in the
design of public roadways for review and comments. Attempt to ensure that roadways have frequent median
breaks for timely access to properties. Policy 6-14, Dead-End Street Access, requires the City to allow the
public use of private roadways during an emergency for hillside subdivisions that have dead-end public
streets longer than 1,000 feet or find a secondary means of access. Policy 6-15, Hillside Access Routes,
directs the city to require new hillside development to have frequent grade breaks in access routes to ensure
a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-16, Hillside Road Upgrades, directs the city to require new
hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire Code and City standards. Policy 6-17,
Private Residential Electronic Security Gates, requires the City to discourage the use of private residential
electronic security gates that act as a barrier to emergency personnel. Policy 6-33, Promote Emergency
Preparedness, requires the City to distribute multi-hazard emergency preparedness information for all
threats identified in the emergency plan. Information will be provided through Cardio-Pulmonary
Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, lectures and
seminars on emergency preparedness, publication of monthly safety articles in the Cupertino Scene, posting
of information on the Emergency Preparedness website and coordination of video and printed information
at the library. Policy 6-38, Emergency Operations Center, requires the City to ensure ongoing training of
identified City employees on their functions/responsibilities in the EOC. Policy 6-39, Emergency Public
Information, requires the City to maintain an Emergency Public Information program to be used during
emergency situations. Policy 6-42, Evacuation Map, requires the City to prepare and update periodically an
evacuation map for the flood hazard areas and distribute it to the general public.
Compliance with applicable federal, State, and local laws and regulations regarding handling of these
materials, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous
Materials, and the General Plan policies listed above that require adequate access and prompt response time,
would ensure future development under Land Use Alternative A would not interfere with an adopted
emergency response plan, or emergency evacuation plan and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not expose people or
structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland
fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands.
According to CAL FIRE, there are no very high fire hazard severity zones within the Local Responsibility
Areas of Cupertino. Furthermore, in 2009 the City adopted a Wildland Urban Interface Fire Area map,
which also identified that there are no high or very high fire risk areas near Land Use Alternative A
Component locations. Although this information indicates that the wildfire risk in the Project Component
location areas is low, there are many resources available to address wildland fires should they arise, including
the aforementioned CAL FIRE Strategic Plan, the CFC, and cooperative fire services from SCCFD. Because
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the overall Project Study Area is located in a highly urbanized area at a distance from regional open space
areas, they are not subjected to wildland fires.
In addition, the current General Plan contains the following policies that, once adopted, would further
ensure that wildfire hazards would be minimized. Within the Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-1,
Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, directs the City to coordinate with Santa Clara County and local
agencies to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) for Santa Clara
County. This policy also includes three new strategies that would direct the City to enact this Policy.
Strategy 1, Monitoring and Budgeting, requires the City to monitor and fund the LHMP program. Strategy
2, Mitigation Incorporation, ensures that individual projects and developments incorporate appropriate
LHMP mitigation measures. Strategy 3, Hazard Mitigation Plan Amendments and Updates, supports Santa
Clara County’s efforts as the lead agency for the LHMP. Through Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard Risk
Reduction Planning and its attendant strategies, the City of Cupertino would comply with regional plans for
addressing local hazards, including wildfire. Policy 6-4, Wild Fire Prevention Efforts, requires the City to
coordinate wild fire prevention efforts with adjacent jurisdictions. Policy 6-5, County Fire Hazard
Reduction, requires the City to encourage the County to put into effect the fire reduction policies of the
County Public Safety Element. Policy 6-6, Fuel Management to Reduce Fire Hazard, requires the City to
encourage the Midpeninsula Open Space District and the County Parks Department to continue efforts in
fuel management to reduce fire hazards. Policy 6-7, Green Fire Breaks, requires the City to encourage the
Midpeninsula Open Space District to consider “green” firebreak uses for open space lands. Policy 6-8, Early
Project Review, requires the City to involve the Fire Department in the early design stage of all projects
requiring public review to assure Fire Department input and modifications as needed. Policy 6-9,
Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection Guidelines, requires the City to coordinate with the Fire
Department to develop new guidelines for fire protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-
11, Multi-Story Buildings Fire Risks, requires the City to recognize that multi-story buildings of any land
use type increase risks of fire, and ensure that adequate fire protection is built into the design and require
on-site fire suppression materials and equipment to ensure the safety of the community. Policy 6-12, Smoke
Detectors, directs the City to require smoke detectors in all new residential units, and in all residential units
at time of sale or rental, in conformance with State law, and to continue to use the Cupertino Scene to
publicize fire hazards correction methods. Strategy 1, Code Amendment, requires the City to adopt an
ordinance to incorporate the smoke detector requirement in Chapter 16.04 of the Cupertino Municipal
Code.
Compliance with these General Plan policies and strategies, combined with the policies listed under Impact
HAZ-5, would ensure that impacts from wildland hazards would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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HAZ-7 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to hazards and hazardous
materials.
As discussed in Chapter 4, Environmental Evaluation, of this Draft EIR, this EIR takes into account growth
projected by Land Use Alternative A within the Cupertino city boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in
combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the surrounding
region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG). This chapter analyzes potential
cumulative hazardous impacts that could arise from a combination of the development of Land Use
Alternative A together with the regional growth in the immediate vicinity of the Project Study Area.
As discussed previously, development allowed by Land Use Alternative A would not result in significant
impacts from the increased use of hazardous household materials and would not increase exposure to
potential hazards associated with wildland fires. Land Use Alternative A would not interfere with
implementation of emergency response plans. In addition, potential project-level impacts associated with
hazards and hazardous materials would be further reduced through compliance with General Plan policies
and strategies, other local, regional, State, and federal regulations, and with implementation of Mitigation
Measures HAZ-4a and HAZ-4b. Since impacts associated with hazardous materials and wildland fire, are, by
their nature, focused on specific sites or areas, the less-than-significant impacts within the Project Study
Area from Land Use Alternative A would not contribute to a cumulative increase in hazards in the
immediate vicinity of the Project Study Area or throughout the region. Therefore, the potential for
cumulative impacts associated with safety and hazards would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY 5.2.7.8
HYDRO-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not violate any water
quality standards or waste discharge requirements.
Development or redevelopment that could occur under the Land Use Alternative A could affect drainage
patterns and increase the overall amount of impervious surfaces, thus creating changes to storm water flows
and water quality. Increasing the total area of impervious surfaces can result in a greater potential to
introduce pollutants to receiving waters. Urban runoff can carry a variety of pollutants (i.e. oil and grease,
metals, sediments, and pesticide residues from roadways, parking lots, rooftops, landscaped areas) and
deposit them into an adjacent waterway via the storm drain system. New construction could also result in
the degradation of water quality with the clearing and grading of sites, releasing sediment, oil and greases,
and other chemicals to nearby water bodies. However, future development permitted by the Land Use
Alternative A would be located on underutilized, infill sites, all of which have already been developed and
currently have a high percentage of impervious surfaces.
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As discussed in Section 4.8.1.1 Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of
this Draft EIR, water quality in storm water runoff is regulated locally by the Santa Clara Valley Urban
Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, which includes the Municipal Regional Storm Water National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit (MRP) C.3 provisions set by the San Francisco Bay
RWQCB.
Adherence to these permit conditions would require new development or redevelopment projects to
incorporate treatment measures, an agreement to maintain them, and other appropriate source control and
site design features that reduce pollutants in runoff to the maximum extent practicable. Many of the
requirements involve LID practices such as the use of onsite infiltration that reduce pollutant loading.
Incorporation of these measures can even improve on existing conditions.
In addition, future development would be required to comply with the NPDES Permit (Municipal Code
Chapter 9.18, Stormwater Pollution Prevention and Watershed Protection) and implement a construction
SWPPP that require the incorporation of BMPs to control sedimentation, erosion, and hazardous materials
contamination of runoff during construction.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would protect water quality and
reduce potential impacts to water quality as a result of implementation of potential future development in
the city. Policy 5-18, Natural Water Bodies and Drainage Systems, directs the City to require that site
design respect the natural topography and drainages to the extent practicable to reduce the amount of
grading necessary and limit disturbance to natural water bodies and natural drainage systems caused by
development including roads, highways and bridges. The supporting Strategy would require the City to
encourage volunteer organizations to help restore and clean creek beds in Cupertino to reduce pollution
and help return waterways to their natural state. Policy 5-19, Reduction of Impervious Surfaces, would
require the City to minimize storm water flow and erosion impacts resulting from development. Strategy 1
would require the City to include a formula regulating how much paved surface is allowable on each lot.
This would include driveways and patios installed at the time of building or remodeling. Strategy 2 would
require the City to encourage the use of non-impervious materials for walkways and driveways. If used in a
City or quasi-public area, mobility and access for the disabled should always take precedent. Strategy 3
would require the City to minimize impervious surface areas, minimizing directly-connected impervious
surfaces, maximizing onsite infiltration and using on-site retaining facilities. Policy 5-20, Pollution and Flow
Impacts, states that the City, prior to making land use decisions, estimate increases in pollutant loads and
flows resulting from projected future development to avoid surface and groundwater quality impacts.
Strategy 1, require incorporation of structural and non-structural Best Management Practices (BMPs) to
mitigate the projected increases in pollutant loads and flows. Policy 5-21, Compact Development Away
from Sensitive Areas, directs the City that where such measures do not conflict with other municipal
purposes or goals, to encourage, via zoning ordinances, compact development located away from creeks,
wetlands, and other sensitive areas. Policy 5-22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with
Watershed-Based Planning, encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning and zoning
by examining the project in the context of the entire watershed area. Strategy 1 would require the City to
develop and maintain a Storm Drainage Master Plan and work with other agencies to develop broader
Watershed Management Plans to model the City’s hydrology. The Storm Drainage Master Plan should
identify facilities needed to prevent “10-year” event street flooding and “100-year” event structure flooding.
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Also identify opportunities to meet water quality protection needs in a cost-effective manner. Policy 5-32,
Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, would require the City to support and participate in the
SCVURPPP in order to work cooperatively with other cities to improve the quality of storm water runoff
discharge into San Francisco Bay. Strategy 1, Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management, would require
the City to implement the Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s
Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff from project sites. Strategy 2, would require the City to
implement the Hydromodification Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to
manage runoff flow and volume from project sites. Policy 5-33, Illicit Discharge into Storm Drains and
Waterways, would require the City to prohibit the discharge of pollutants and the illicit dumping of wastes
into the storm drains, creeks and waterways. The supporting Strategy would require the City to partner
with public, private, and non-profit agencies on public outreach and education on the importance of
responsible stormwater management. Policy 5-34, Storm Water Runoff, would require the City to
investigate opportunities to retain or detain storm runoff on new development. Strategy 1 Would require
the City to ensure that private development includes adequate measures to treat stormwater runoff and
maximize opportunities to filter, infiltrate, store and reuse or evaporate stormwater runoff onsite. Policy 5-
36, Mitigation for Potential Storm Water Impacts, directs the City to require mitigation measures for
potential storm water pollutant impacts for projects subject to environmental review. Policy 5-37, Pest-
Resistant Landscaping and Design Features, would require the City to encourage the consideration of pest-
resistant landscaping and design features, including the landscaping and design of storm water detention and
retention facilities proposed in development projects. Other design features that are encouraged include
green roofs and onsite treatment of grey water for irrigation.
While implementation of this Alternative would permit new office, commercial and hotel development, and
new housing units to meet projected housing demands, as described above, it does not contain any policies
that would directly or indirectly result in violations of water quality standards. Therefore, implementation of
this alternative would have a less-than-significant impact on water quality.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-2 Implementation of the Land Use Alternative A would not substantially
deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater
recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a
lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g. the production rate of
pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support
existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted).
Planned future development for this Alternative could result in an increase in impervious surfaces, which
would reduce infiltration and could lead to reduced groundwater recharge. However, as previously
described, future development permitted by this Alternative would be located on underutilized, infill sites,
most of which have already been developed and currently have a high percentage of impervious surfaces. The
Applicants for new development and redevelopment would be encouraged to implement site design
measures, LID, and BMPs, including infiltration features, that will contribute to groundwater recharge and
minimize storm water runoff. As discussed in Impact HYDRO-1, General Plan Policy 5-19, Reduction of
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Impervious Surfaces, would require minimizing impervious surface areas, minimizing directly connected
impervious surfaces, maximizing onsite infiltration and using on-site retaining facilities among other
strategies. In addition, given the Project Component locations, future development would not interfere with
groundwater recharge that takes place in the McClellan Ponds recharge facility located within the City of
Cupertino or the creeks and streams that run through the city.
While buildout of this Alternative could lead to an increased demand for water, which could lead to an
increase in groundwater pumping, water supply impacts are discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service
Systems, of this Draft EIR. As discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems, water retailers for
the City of Cupertino obtain their water from groundwater wells and purchases from SCVWD. The
SCVWD’s 2010 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) indicates that there is a sufficient supply of water
through 2035 even for multiple dry years.16 In addition, the SCVWD operates and maintains an active
groundwater recharge program with 18 major recharge systems, over 70 off-stream ponds with a combined
surface area of more than 320 acres, and over 30 local creeks. Runoff is captured in the SCVWD’s reservoirs
and released into both in-stream and off-stream recharge ponds for percolation into the groundwater basin.
In addition, imported water is delivered by the raw water conveyance system to streams and ponds.17
The use of site design features required by C.3 provisions of the MRP and compliance with the City of
Cupertino General Plan policies listed in Impact HYDRO-1 would reduce the impact of increased
impervious surfaces on groundwater recharge. Therefore, implementation of this Alternative would have a
less-than-significant impact with respect to groundwater supplies or groundwater recharge.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-3 Implementation of the Land Use Alternative A would not substantially alter
the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the
alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner that would result
in substantial erosion, siltation, or flooding on- or off-site.
Development within the Project Component and the change in land uses will result in an increase in
impervious surfaces. This could result in an increase in storm water runoff, higher peak discharges to
drainage channels, and the potential to cause erosion or sedimentation in drainage swales and streams.
Increased runoff volumes and velocities could create nuisance flooding in areas without adequate drainage
facilities. However, none of the future development would require alteration of the course of an existing
stream. Most of the future development sites are in infill areas that are already developed or paved and new
development on these sites should not create a substantial increase in the amount of impervious surfaces.
All new development and redevelopment projects will be required, pursuant to the Santa Clara Valley Urban
Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) and MRP, to implement construction phase BMPs,
16 Santa Clara Valley Water District, 2010. Urban Water Management Plan.
17 Santa Clara Valley Water District, 2010. Urban Water Management Plan.
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post-construction design measures that encourage maximize infiltration in pervious areas, and post-
construction source control measures to help keep pollutants out of storm water. In addition, post-
construction storm water treatment measures are required for most projects with 10,000 square feet or
more of impervious surface and post-construction storm water quantity (flow peak, volume, and duration)
controls are required for projects in certain locations with one acre or more of impervious surface, in
accordance with the SCVURPPP’s Hydromodification Management Plan (HMP). This would minimize the
amount of storm water runoff from new development and redevelopment sites within the city.
During construction, project applicants are subject to the NPDES construction permit requirements,
including preparation of a SWPPP. In addition, Section 16.08.110, Interim Erosion and Sediment Control
Plan, of the City’s Municipal Code would require preparation of an Interim Erosion and Sediment Control
Plan, either integrated with the site map/grading plan or submitted separately, that calculates the maximum
runoff from the site for the ten-year storm event and describes measures to be undertaken to retain
sediment on the site, a brief description of the surface runoff and erosion control measures to be
implemented, and vegetative measures to be undertaken. These control measures would further reduce the
potential for substantial erosion or siltation and would ensure that runoff from the site is protective of the
beneficial uses of receiving waters. Once constructed, the requirements for new development or
redevelopment would include source control measures and site design measures that address storm water
runoff and would reduce the potential for erosion or siltation.
In addition, Provisions C.3 of the MRP require new development and redevelopment projects, meeting
certain criteria, to implement storm water treatment measures to contain site runoff, using specific
numeric sizing criteria based on volume and flow rate. For hydromodification projects, post-project runoff
shall not exceed estimated pre-project rates and durations where the increased storm water discharge rates
and durations would result in increased potential for erosion.18
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would further prevent soil erosion and
reduce impacts to water quality. Policy 5-10, Landscaping Near Natural Vegetation, per the City’s Water
Efficient Landscaping Ordinance, Environmentally Preferable Procurement Policy, and the Parks &
Recreation Green Policies, would require the City to continue to emphasize drought tolerant and pest-
resistant native and non-invasive, non-native, drought tolerant plants and ground covers when landscaping
public and private properties near natural vegetation, particularly for control of erosion from disturbance to
the natural terrain. Policy 5-19, discussed above, would require the City to minimize storm water flow and
erosion impacts resulting from development. Policy 5-20, Pollution and Flow Impacts, states that the City,
prior to making land use decisions, estimate increases in pollutant loads and flows resulting from projected
future development to avoid surface and groundwater quality impacts. Strategy 1, require incorporation of
structural and non-structural Best Management Practices (BMPs) to mitigate the projected increases in
pollutant loads and flows. In addition Policy 6-47, Hillside Grading, would require the City to restrict the
extent and timing of hillside grading operation to April through October. Require performance bonds
18 Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, 2014. Website: http://www.scvurppp-w2k.com/nd_wp.shtml#
other accessed on May 3, 2014.
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during the remaining time to guarantee the repair of any erosion damage. All graded slopes must be planted
as soon as practical after grading is complete.
With implementation of the erosion and sediment control measures and regulatory provisions to limit
runoff for new development and redevelopment sites, and implementation of the General Plan policies and
strategies, future development under this Alternative would not result in significant increases in erosion and
sedimentation or contribute to on-site or off-site flooding. Therefore, implementation of Land Use
Alternative A would have a less-than-significant impact with respect to drainage patterns.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-4 Implementation of the Land Use Alternative A would create or contribute
runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm
water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff.
As discussed previously, an increase in impervious surfaces with implementation of this Alternative could
result in an increase in storm water runoff that could exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water
drainage systems. Under existing conditions, portions of the City’s storm drainage systems are not capable
of containing the runoff from 10-year storm events.19 As shown in Table 4.8-2, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology
and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR, there are existing deficiencies in the Project Component locations that
could be exacerbated by potential future development under this Alternative.
In accordance with established City and County requirements, new development and redevelopment
projects must be designed such that the storm water runoff generated from the ten-year storm is conveyed
in the storm drainage system (underground pipes or open channels) and the storm water runoff generated
from the 100-year design storm must be safely conveyed away from the site without creating and/or
contributing to downstream or upstream flooding conditions.20 In addition, the City of Cupertino would
require that post-project storm water runoff rates be less than or equal to pre-project values for projects
subject to hydromodification requirements and where storm drain facilities are at or have exceeded system
capacities.21 Therefore, future development associated with this Alternative would not be expected to result
in downstream flooding but could exacerbate existing conditions of the storm drain system, which is
undersized to convey the 10-year storm event at some locations.
New development and redevelopment within the city would not create substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff. During the construction phase, projects would be required to prepare SWPPPs and erosion
and sediment control plans, thus limiting the discharge of pollutants from the site. During operation,
projects must implement BMPs and LID measures that minimize the amount of storm water runoff and
associated pollutants. Additionally, new development or redevelopment projects would be required to pay
19 City of Cupertino, 1993. Storm Drain Master Plan.
20 Santa Clara County, 2007. Drainage Manual. Adopted August 14, 2007.
21 Verbal communication with Fletcher Parsons, BKF and Chad Mosley, City of Cupertino, March 19, 2014.
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storm drainage fees pursuant to City Council Resolution No. 12-033 to support expansion and
improvements to the existing storm drain system. Also, as discussed in Impact HYDRO-1 and HYDRO-3,
the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would require the City to minimize
storm water flow and erosion impacts resulting from development, Support and participate in the
SCVURPPP, implement the Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s
Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff from project sites, require mitigation measures for
potential storm water pollutant impacts for projects subject to environmental review, and encourage the
consideration of design features, including the landscaping and design of storm water detention and
retention facilities proposed in development projects. Specifically, Policy 5-22, Storm Drainage
Management and Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning, would encourage development projects to
follow watershed-based planning and zoning by examining the project in the context of the entire watershed
area. By encouraging improved stormwater drainage, including project-practices to prevent runoff, this
policy would serve to deploy strategies to decrease runoff and prevent increases to stormwater entering the
drainage system.
Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy 5-22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance
with Watershed-Based Planning, would encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning
and zoning by examining the project in the context of the entire watershed area. Policy 5-32 would
incorporate new proposed Strategy 1, which would direct the City to implement the Post-Construction
Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff
from project sites, and Strategy 2, which would direct the City to implement the Hydromodification
Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to manage runoff flow and volume from
project sites. Policy 5-32, Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, would require the City to support
and participate in the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) in order
to work cooperatively with other cities to improve the quality of storm water runoff discharge into San
Francisco Bay. Strategy 1, Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management, would require the City to
implement the Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES
Permit to reduce urban runoff from project sites. Strategy 2, Hydromodification Management, would
require the City to implement the Hydromodification Management requirements of the City’s Municipal
NPDES Permit to manage runoff flow and volume from project sites. Policy 5-34, Storm Water Runoff,
includes a new strategy that would direct the City to “ensure that private development includes adequate
measures to treat stormwater runoff,” and to “maximize opportunities to filter, infiltrate, store and reuse or
evaporate stormwater runoff onsite.” By encouraging improved stormwater drainage, management, and
retention, these policies would serve to prevent or reduce unmanaged runoff that could exceed the capacity
of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted
runoff.
Implementation of General Plan policies and strategies aimed at reducing storm water and compliance with
the mandatory regulation outlined in this discussion would ensure development consistent with this
Alternative would not require significant expansions of the existing storm water drainage infrastructure
Therefore, impacts associated with future development runoff would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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HYDRO-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not otherwise
substantially degrade water quality.
Increased runoff from the construction of impermeable surfaces as the Project Component locations are
developed could worsen water quality in the storm water runoff. Pollutants commonly associated with
construction sites that can impact storm water are sediments, nutrients, trace metals, pesticides, oil, grease,
fuels, and miscellaneous construction wastes. Pollutants generated from the proposed land uses of the
Project Study Area may include sediment, nutrients, bacteria and viruses, oil and grease, metals, organics,
pesticides/herbicides, and trash/debris.
As required by City and County storm water management guidelines, BMPs would be implemented during
both construction and operation of this Alternative. These BMPs would control and prevent the release of
sediment, debris, and other pollutants into receiving water bodies. Implementation of BMPs during
construction would be in accordance with the provisions of the SWPPP, which would minimize the release
of sediment, soil, and other pollutants. Operational BMPs would be required to meet MRP requirements,
which include site design, source control, and treatment control measures to treat and control runoff before
it enters the storm drain system or receiving water bodies.
Additionally, implementation of Policy 5-22 Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with
Watershed-Based Planning would direct the City to “identify opportunities to meet water quality protection
needs in a cost-effective manner,” which would also serve to prevent degradation of water quality. Policy 5-
22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning, would encourage
development projects to follow watershed-based planning and zoning by examining the project in the
context of the entire watershed area. Policy 5-32, Ground Water Recharge Sites, would incorporate new
Strategy 1, which would direct the City to implement the Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management
requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff from project sites, and Strategy
2, which would direct the City to implement the Hydromodification Management requirements of the
City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to manage runoff flow and volume from project sites. Policy 5-32, Urban
Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, would require the City to support and participate in the Santa Clara
Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) in order to work cooperatively with other
cities to improve the quality of storm water runoff discharge into San Francisco Bay. Strategy 1, Post-
Construction Urban Runoff Management, would require the City to implement the Post-Construction
Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff
from project sites. Strategy 2, Hydromodification Management, would require the City to implement the
Hydromodification Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to manage runoff
flow and volume from project sites. Policy 5-34, Storm Water Runoff, includes a new strategy that would
direct the City to “ensure that private development includes adequate measures to treat stormwater runoff,”
and to “maximize opportunities to filter, infiltrate, store and reuse or evaporate stormwater runoff onsite.”
By encouraging improved stormwater drainage, management, and retention, these policies would serve to
prevent or reduce unmanaged runoff that could substantially degrade water quality.
With implementation of these BMPs in accordance with City and County requirements, the potential
impact on water quality would be less than significant.
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Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not place housing within
a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a Federal Flood Hazard
Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation
map or place structures that would impede or redirect flood flows within a
100-year flood hazard area.
Implementation of the Land Use Alternative B would not result in the development of residential structures
in existing FEMA-designated 100-year floodplains or Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). As shown on
Figure 4.8-4, the areas within Cupertino and the Sphere of Influence that are within the 100-year floodplain
are limited and are areas located immediately adjacent to creeks and drainage channels that travel through
the city. The Project Components locations relative to the 100-year floodplains are shown on Figure 4.8-4 in
Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR.
Regnart Creek and Calabasas Creek and their associated 100-year floodplains pass through portions of the
South De Anza and the Heart of the City Special Areas, which are proposed to include new housing and/or
new development. However, the FEMA floodplain maps state that the 100-year flood would be contained
within the channels of these creeks at some of the locations within the Special Areas. At other locations, the
width of the floodplain parallels the creek channels and varies in width between 50 to 100 feet. Because the
City of Cupertino and Santa Clara County have restrictions on construction within 50 feet of a stream, new
residences or structures would not be located within the 100-year floodplain. Calabasas Creek and its
associated 100-year floodplain also passes through the North Vallco Park Special Area. However, no new
housing is proposed in the portion of the North Vallco Park Special Area where the 100-year floodplain is
located. Also, because the floodplain is only 100 feet wide at this location and there are restrictions on
construction next to streams, no other structures will be built in the floodplain. General Plan and Zoning
Ordinance Conformance Sites 39, 44, and 45 are also in areas mapped as including the 100-year floodplain.
However, these sites are proposed to be rezoned as PR (park and recreation) so no new housing or
structures would be located in these areas.
As described in Section 4.8.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, under
the subheading “Waterways,” the creeks that run through Cupertino pose little threat of flooding as a result
of effort by the City and SCVWD to modify, restore and improve the flow channels and implement erosion
control measures to reduce impacts from flooding.
Land Use Alternative A includes General Plan policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure
potential impacts from flooding would not occur with the implementation of the potential future
development. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 7-5, Storm Drainage
Infrastructure, would require the City to maintain storm drainage infrastr ucture to reduce flood hazards and
meet the needs of 10-year storm events, with developers contributing as necessary to the creation of those
systems. This policy would serve to prevent flooding both in general and a result of development on
individual sites. Under this policy, the City would plan for potential infrastructure specifically designed to
mitigate flood flows, including within the 100-year floodplain. As individual flood control or stormwater
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system projects are proposed, such projects would undergo project-level environmental review that would
evaluate and address potential adverse physical effects. Additionally, within the Health and Safety Element,
Policy 6-35, Sea Level Rise Protection, would require the City to protect itself from sea level rise. Strategy
1 under this policy would direct the City to coordinate with other agencies to evaluate the potential effects
of ongoing sea level rise in order to determine appropriate actions, and Strategy 2 would require the City to
maintain up-to-date flood insurance maps to identify the effects of rising sea levels. This strategy would
serve to prevent impacts of increased future flooding due to rising sea levels.
In addition, the City of Cupertino has adopted local standards for construction in floodplain areas,22 and
together with Santa Clara County, there are restrictions on construction within 50 feet of a stream, which
includes most of the designated 100-year floodplains within the city.23 If future development were to be
constructed within the 100-year flood zone, it would require the placement of fill to elevate structures
above the 100-year floodplain elevation. In order for the development to be considered outside of the
floodplain and no longer subject to special flood hazard requirements, the applicant would have to submit an
application to FEMA for a Letter of Map Revision – Fill (LOMR-F) after the fill has been placed. After
FEMA has revised the FIRM to show that the future development is now outside of the SFHA, the City
would no longer be required to apply the minimum NFIP floodplain management standards to structures
built on the land and the mandatory flood insurance requirements would no longer apply. However, as part
of its floodplain management strategy, to reduce possible loss of life and property in the event of a flood, the
City would encourage compliance with as many of the standards as financially feasible.
Construction within SFHAs is governed by the City’s Municipal Code Chapter 16.52 (Prevention of Flood
Damage), Section 16.52.040 (General Standards), which sets forth construction requirements for
development that would minimize flood hazard risks, including anchoring and flood-proofing; limitations on
use for structures below the base flood elevation; use of materials and utility equipment resistant to flood
damage; the requirement that electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air conditioning equipment and
other service facilities be designed and/or located to prevent water from entering or accumulating within
the components during flood conditions; and the requirement that all new and replacement water supply
and sanitary sewage systems be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the system
and discharge from systems into floodwaters.
Because Land Use Alternative A would not include the placement of housing within the 100-year floodplain,
would include planning for management of flood flows, and would require any new construction to comply
with General Plan policies, the City Municipal Code, and Santa Clara County water course protection
requirements, which limit construction within 50 feet of a stream, the potential for flood hazards would be
reduced to less-than-significant levels.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
22 City of Cupertino, Municipal Code Chapter 16.52, Prevention of Flood Damage.
23 City of Cupertino, Municipal Code, Chapter 9.19, Water Resource Protection.
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HYDRO-7 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not expose people or
structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding,
including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam.
According to mapping compiled by ABAG and Office of Emergency Services (OES),24 as shown on Figure
4.8-5, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR, portions of Cupertino are within the
Stevens Creek Reservoir inundation zone. Specific areas of planned development within the city that could
be impacted with flooding in the unlikely event that the dam failed include the Homestead Special Area,
North Vallco Park Special Area, Study Areas 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire), 3 (PG&E), 4 (Mirapath),
and 5 (Cupertino Village), Housing Element Sites 10 (The Hamptons), 12 (Homestead Lanes and
Adjacency), and 17 (Homestead Road – IntraHealth/Office/Tennis Courts), portions of Monta Vista Village
Neighborhood and Vallco Park North Special Center; and Other Commercial Center Sites 3, 6, and 7.
Dam inundation zones are based on the highly unlikely scenario of a total catastrophic dam failure occurring
in a very short period of time. Existing state and local regulations address the potential for flood hazards as a
result of dam failure. The Stevens Creek Reservoir is under the jurisdiction of the California Department of
Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD), which conducts annual inspections and reviews all
aspects of dam safety. The dam has been assessed for seismic stability and will withstand the maximum
credible earthquake. The SCVWD is also planning to implement additional remedial measures to assure the
continued safe operation of the dam. Dam owners are also required to maintain EAPs that include
procedures for damage assessment and emergency warnings. In addition, the City of Cupertino in
conjunction with Santa Clara County addresses the possibility of dam failure in the Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan (LHMP), which also provides emergency response actions.
The probability of dam failure is extremely low and the City of Cupertino and Santa Clara County have
never been impacted by a major dam failure. Furthermore, the General Plan includes policies and strategies,
aimed at reducing impacts from dam failure. Policy 6-43, Emergency Response to Dam Failure, would
require the City to ensure that Cupertino is prepared to respond to a potential dam failure. Strategy 1
would require the City to maintain a dam emergency and evacuation plan. Strategy 2 would require the City
to continue to coordinate dam-related evacuation plans with the City of Sunnyvale to ensure that traffic
management between the two cities facilitates life safety.
Policy 7-5, Storm Drainage Infrastructure, would require the City to maintain storm drainage infrastructure
to reduce flood hazards and meet the needs of 10-year storm events, with developers contributing as
necessary to the creation of those systems. This policy serves to prevent flooding both in general and a result
of development on individual sites. Under this policy, the City would plan for potential infrastructure
specifically designed to mitigate flood flows, including those that could threaten life or property. As
individual flood control or stormwater system projects are proposed, such projects would undergo project-
level environmental review that would evaluate and address potential adverse physical effects.
24 Association of Bay Area Governments, 2003. Dam Inundation Hazard Map for Cupertino, Website www.abag.ca.gov/cgi-
bin/pickdamx.pl (accessed April 9, 2014).
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Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, would require the City to coordinate with Santa
Clara County and local agencies to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
(LHMP). Strategies under this policy would require the City to monitor the program and evaluate its
success, to ensure that mitigations from the LHMP are integrated into individual projects, and to support
Santa Clara County in its efforts as lead agency for the LHMP. This policy would serve to ensure that the
City acts to reduce risks from flooding that could threaten lives or property. Additionally, Policy 6-35, Sea
Level Rise Protection, would direct the City to protect itself from sea level rise. Strategy 1 under this policy
would require the City to coordinate with other agencies to evaluate the potential effects of ongoing sea
level rise in order to determine appropriate actions, and Strategy 2 would direct the City to maintain up-to-
date flood insurance maps to identify the effects of rising sea levels. This strategy serves to prevent impacts
of increased future flooding due to rising sea levels
Therefore, given these policies and strategies and adherence to the Joint Stevens Creek Dam Failure Plan
together with the very low probability of dam failure and that the dam has been assessed for seismic stability
and will withstand the maximum credible earthquake, implementation of this Alternative would not expose
people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death in the case of dam failure and impacts are
considered to be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-8 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not have inundation by
seiche, tsunami, or mudflow.
Because the City of Cupertino is more than eight (8) miles south of San Francisco Bay and is more than 100
feet above mean sea level (msl), there is no potential for a tsunami to impact the Project Study Area.25 There
are no large bodies of water within the City of Cupertino that could generate seiches, but the City is located
just north of Stevens Creek Reservoir. A seiche could theoretically occur in this reservoir as the result of an
earthquake or other disturbance, but the flooding impact would less than that of the dam inundation zone.
Although limited portions of the southern tip of Cupertino are within areas that could result in landslides
and debris flows, these areas are primarily open space or very low-density hillside homes. None of the
Project Component locations are within ABAG mapped rainfall-induced landslide or earthquake-induced
landslide zones. Therefore, impacts due to seiches, tsunamis, or mudflows would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
25 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014. Interactive Tsunami Inundation Map. Accessed at: http://gis.abag.ca.gov/
website/Tsunami/index.html on April 5, 2014.
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HYDRO-9 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to water quality.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by this Alternative within the Cupertino city boundary and
SOI, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the
surrounding region, as forecast by the ABAG. The geographic context used for the cumulative assessment of
water quality and hydrology impacts encompasses the six watersheds, which encompass the City of
Cupertino. Cumulative impacts can occur when impacts that are significant or less than significant from a
proposed project combine with similar impacts from other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable projects
in a similar geographic area.
As discussed previously, implementation of the Land Use Alternative A would require conformance with
State and local policies that would reduce hydrology and water quality impacts to less-than-significant
levels. When applicable, any additional new development within the city would be subject, on a project-by-
project basis, to independent CEQA review as well as policies in the Cupertino General Plan, design
guidelines, Zoning Ordinance, and other applicable City requirements that reduce impacts related to
hydrology and water quality. More specifically, potential changes related to storm water quality, storm water
flows, drainage, impervious surfaces, and flooding would be minimized via the implementation of storm
water control measures, retention, infiltration, and LID measures, and review by the City’s Public Works
Department to integrate measures to reduce potential flooding impacts.
All cumulative projects would be subject to similar permit requirements and would be required to comply
with City ordinances and General Plan policies, as well as numerous water quality regulations that control
construction related and operational discharge of pollutants in storm water. The water quality regulations
implemented by the San Francisco Bay RWQCB take a basin-wide approach and consider water quality
impairment in a regional context. For example, the NPDES Construction Permit ties receiving water
limitations and basin plan objectives to terms and conditions of the permit, and the MS4 Permit works with
all municipalities to manage storm water systems to be collectively protective of water quality. For these
reasons, impacts of this Alternative on hydrology and water quality are not cumulatively considerable and
the cumulative impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
LAND USE AND PLANNING 5.2.7.9
LU-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not physically divide an
established community.
Implementation of the Land Use Alternative A would result in a significant impact if it would lead to new
development or physical features that would divide existing communities. The physical division of an
established community typically refers to the construction of a physical feature (such as a wall, interstate
highway, or railroad tracks) or the removal of a means of access (such as a local road or bridge) that would
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impair mobility within an existing community, or between a community and outlying areas. An example of a
physical feature that would divide an existing community is an airport, roadway, or railroad track through an
existing community that could constrain travel from one side of the community to another or impair travel
to areas outside of the community.
As described in Section 4.9.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.9, Land Use and Planning, of this Draft
EIR, the development proposed as part of Land Use Alternative A would be located on sites either
developed and/or underutilized, and/or in close proximity to existing residential and residential-serving
development, where future development is currently permitted. While future development under Land Use
Alternative A could require some modifications to the roadway patterns (i.e. widening, restriping, vacating),
major or large scale changes would occur and future development under Land Use B would generally retain
the existing roadway patterns and Land Use Alternative A does not propose any new major roadways or
other physical features through existing residential neighborhoods or other communities that would create
new barriers in the Project Study Area. New development in currently developed areas would result from
increased office, commercial, hotel and residential allocations without dividing any existing communities.
The designation of sites for office, commercial, hotel and higher density residential development would not
physically divide any of the areas where Land Use Alternative A is identified, because the vicinity of the sites
would all retain their predominant existing uses for office, commercial, hotel and residential use, and would
not require any new roads or other features that would divide a community. In the case of Housing Element
Sites that propose a land use change to accommodate residential land uses, these locations are not large
enough in scale (i.e. highway, railway, airport) and are within the scale of the current built environment and
would not divide an established community. Accordingly, impacts would be less than significant.
Furthermore, future development under Land Use Alternative A would be required to be consistent with
the General Plan policies promote cohesive and compatible neighborhoods and prevent new development
from dividing existing uses where different land uses abut one another.
Within the Land Use and Community Design Element Policy 2-1, Focus Development in Mixed-Use Special
Areas, would require the City to, in the mixed-use Special Areas where office, commercial and residential
uses are allowed, focus higher intensity development and increased building heights where appropriate in
designated corridors, gateways, sub areas and nodes. Policy 2-2, Connections Between Special Areas,
Employment Centers and the Community, would require the City to provide strong connections between
the mixed-use Special Areas, employment centers and the surrounding community. Policy 2-5, Distinct
Neighborhoods, would require the City to plan for neighborhoods that have distinctive edges, an identifiable
center and safe pedestrian and bicycle access to surrounding uses. Policy 2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility,
would require the City to not only minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise,
traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks,
landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures but also Create zoning
requirements or specific plans that reduce incompatibilities between new development and existing
residential neighborhoods through measures such as: daylight planes for single-family development,
minimum setback standards, landscape screening, acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service
areas away from residential uses and limitations on hours of operation. Policy 4-2, Defined and Balanced
Circulation System, would require the city to define the circulation system as a hierarchy of street widths
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from urban to rural areas. Balance the roadway system between automobile and pedestrian/bicycle needs.
Policy 2-13, Urban Service Area Expansion, would require the City to work with the cities of Los Altos, San
Jose and Sunnyvale, as appropriate, to create boundaries that define logical municipal service areas. Policy 2-
15, Urban Building Forms, would require the City to concentrate urban building forms in the mixed-use
Special Areas. Policy 2-18, Single-Family Residential Design, would require the City to preserve the
character of residential neighborhoods by requiring new development to be compatible with the existing
neighborhood. Policy 2-19, Compatibility of Lot Sizes, would require the City to ensure that zoning,
subdivision and lot line adjustment requests related to lot size or lot design consider the need to preserve
neighborhood lot patterns. Policy 2-30, Monta Vista Village Neighborhood would require the City to retain
and enhance Monta Vista Village as a residential, commercial and industrial area, with adequate pedestrian
and bicycle access. Under this policy, the commercial district should serve as a neighborhood commercial
center for Monta Vista Village and its adjoining neighborhoods. Mixed-use with residential is encouraged.
The industrial area should be retained to provide small-scale light industrial and service industrial
opportunities, while remaining compatible with the surrounding residential and commercial uses. Policy 2-
26 G, South Vallco Park Gateway, would require the City to retain and enhance South Vallco Park Gateway as
a large-scale commercial area that is a regional commercial (including hotel), office and entertainment
center with supporting residential development. Policy 2-24, Homestead Road Special Area, would require
the City to create an integrated, mixed-use commercial and housing village along Homestead Road,
consisting of three integrated areas. Each area will be master planned, with special attention to the
interconnectivity of these areas. Policy 2-46, Big Box Development, would require the City to consider
approving big box development if it is compatible with the surrounding area in terms of building mass and traffic,
and is consistent with the City’s economic development goals. Policy 2-47, Hillside Development Standards,
would require the City to establish building and development standards for the hillsides that ensure hillside
protection. Policy 2-50, Clustering Development in Subdivisions, would require the City to cluster lots in
major subdivisions in the 5-20-acre slope density designation, and encourage clustering in minor subdivision
in the 5-20-acre slope density designation. Policy 2-52, Views for Public Facilities, would require the City to
design and layout public facilities, so they include views of the foothills or other nearby natural features, and
plan hillside developments to minimize visual and other impacts on adjacent public open space. Policy 2-84,
Park Walking Distance, would require the City to ensure that each household is within a half-mile walk of a
neighborhood park, or community park with neighborhood facilities, and that the route is reasonably free of
physical barriers, including streets with heavy traffic. Under this policy, wherever possible, the City shall
provide pedestrian links between parks. Policy 2-63, Public and Quasi-Public Activities, would require the
City to allow public and quasi-public activities in commercial or office land use categories with zoning and
use permit review based on the following criteria: The proposed project must have similar building forms,
population, traffic, noise and infrastructure impacts as the existing land use categories. Additionally, under
this policy the proposed project must maintain a commercial interface in commercial designations by
offering retail activities, creating a storefront appearance or other design or use options that are similar to
commercial activities. Policy 2-35, New Drive-up Services, would require the City to permit new drive-up
service facilities for commercial, industrial or institutional use only when adequate circulation, parking,
noise control, architecture features, and landscaping are compatible with the visual character of the
surrounding uses and residential areas are adequately buffered. Under this policy the City shall prohibit
drive-up services in the Crossroads area and further evaluate any proposed drive-up services site for
conformance with other goals and policies of the Plan. Policy 2-36, Late Evening Entertainment Activities,
would require the City to discourage late-evening entertainment activities such as cocktail lounges,
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recreational facilities and theaters in the major mixed use corridors where they abut low-density residential
properties. Under this policy such uses may be considered with conditional use permit review when the
entrances and uses are located away from sensitive receptors/uses and appropriate mitigation measures such
as adequate planting, policing, parking designated away from sensitive receptors are incorporated.
Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-10, Roadway Plans that Complement the Needs of Adjacent Land
Use, would require the City to design roadways based on efficient alignments, appropriate number and
widths of traffic lanes, inclusion of medians, parking and bicycle lanes and the suitable width and location of
sidewalks as needed to support the adjacent properties. In addition, design the local streets to satisfy the
aesthetic requirements of the area served. In general, the aesthetics of a street will be improved if it can be
narrower rather than wider, include significant landscaping with shade trees, and provide safe and
convenient places for people to bicycle and walk. Details of design, such as provision of vertical curbs and
minimum corner radii, are to be considered desirable. Design details should be developed in the City’s road
improvement standards. Policy 4-14, Limited Street Closures, would require the City to not close streets
unless there is a demonstrated safety or over-whelming through traffic problem and there are no acceptable
alternatives. Closures may shift traffic to other local streets, thus moving the problem from one
neighborhood to another. Policy 4-16, Transportation Noise, Fumes and Hazards, would require the City to,
in addition to limiting through traffic volume on local streets, protect the community from noise, fumes and
hazards caused by the City’s transportation system. The quarries on Stevens Canyon Road, Stevens Creek
Boulevard and Foothill Boulevard are major sources of transportation noise.
Within the Health and Safety Element Policy 6-50, Freeway Design and Neighborhood Noise, would
require the City to ensure that roads and development along Highway SR 85 and I-280 are designed and
improved in a way that minimizes neighborhood noise. Policy 6-53, Traffic Calming Solutions to Street
Noise, would require the City to evaluate solutions to discourage through traffic in neighborhoods through
enhanced paving and modified street design.
Potential future development in all Zoning Districts would be subject to the City’s discretionary review
processes, including, as necessary, the issuance of Developmental Permits, and Architectural and Site
Approval and Use Permits, in accordance with Section 19.168 of the Zoning Ordinance. This review would
ensure that development allocation, architectural and site designs of, as well as the uses located within
future development in the Project Study Area promote and are consistent with the goals, policies and
strategies identified in the General Plan. The review process will consider the vicinity in which each project
is proposed in and will review the intensity of the proposed development.
In addition, future development would also would be required to comply with Design Standards in the
Heart of the City Specific Plan, the Vallco Master Plan, and the Monta Vista Design Guidelines as described
in Section 4.9.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.9, Land Use and Planning, of this Draft EIR, and
the General Plan policies set forth above, all of which would promote cohesive and compatible
neighborhoods and prevent new development from dividing existing uses where different land uses abut one
another. Therefore, the impacts from implementation of the project would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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LU-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not conflict with an
applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect.
The City of Cupertino General Plan is the primary planning document for the City of Cupertino. The
proposed amendments are intended to ensure consistency between the General Plan, Housing Element and
Zoning Ordinance, and State law. Because the General Plan is the overriding planning document for the
City, the impact would be less than significant.
For a discussion on this Alternative’s consistency with Plan Bay Area as it relates to greenhouse gas
emissions, see Section 5.2.7.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, above.
For a discussion on this Alternative’s consistency with regional housing projections and Plan Bay Area, see
Section 5.2.7.11, Population and Housing, below.
For a discussion on this Alternative’s consistency with the 2002 Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation Plan,
see Section 5.3.7.13, Transportation and Traffic, below.
As discussed above in Section 4.9.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.9, Land Use and Planning,
there are no airports or private airstrips within or in the immediate proximity to the city,26 and the city is
not located within any protected airspace zones defined by the Santa Clara County Airport Land Use
Commission (ALUC) 27 and has no heliports listed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA);28 thus, no
conflicts with a Comprehensive Land Use Plan for an airport would occur.
Policy 2-22, Jobs/Housing Balance, would direct the City to work toward achieving a jobs-housing balance
consistent with the Housing Element. Additionally, proposed Policy 5-2, Regional Growth and
Transportation Coordination, would direct the City to coordinate with local and regional agencies regarding
regional growth and transportation plans and would require the City to ensure that its local plans are
consistent with the Regional Transportation Plan (RTPs) and Sustainable Communities Strategy. In addition,
Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, would require the City to coordinate with Santa
Clara County and local agencies to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
(LHMP). Strategies under this policy would require the City to monitor the program and evaluate its
success, to ensure that mitigations from the LHMP are integrated into individual projects, and to support
Santa Clara County in its efforts as lead agency for the LHMP. Together, these policies would serve to ensure
that implementation of Land Use Alternative A is consistent with regional land use, transportation, and
hazards mitigation plans.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
26 AirNav, http://www.airnav.com/airports/us/CA, accessed on August 27, 2013.
27 Santa Clara County Airport Land-Use Commission, 2011. Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Santa Clara County, Norman Y. Mineta,
San Jose International Airport.
28 Federal Aviation Administration, 2011. Airport Facilities Data. www.faa.gov/airports/airport_safety/airportdata_5010/, accessed
August 13, 2013.
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LU-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to land use and planning.
As discussed in Chapter 4, Environmental Evaluation, of this Draft EIR, this EIR takes into account growth
projected by this Alternative within the Cupertino city boundary and SOI, in combination with impacts
from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the
ABAG. The geographic context for the cumulative land use and planning effects occur from potential future
development under the General Plan combined with effects of development on lands adjacent to the city
within Los Altos and Sunnyvale to the north, Santa Clara and San Jose to the east, and Saratoga to the south,
and the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County to the west and south, and within the region.
The land use analyses find that Land Use Alternative A would not divide an established community or
conflict with established plans, policies and regulations. The Land Use Alternative A also would not conflict
with any land use plan, policies, or regulations, in or outside the City of Cupertino, adopted for the purpose
of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect. Future development that would be allowed under Land
Use Alternative A would not create substantial land use impacts. Development is likely to continue to occur
in surrounding cities and in the Santa Clara region as well. However, such development is taking place in
already urbanized areas as in-fill development and would not require significant land use changes that would
create land use conflicts, nor would they divide communities. Therefore, Land Use Alternative A would not
result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to cumulative impacts related to land use changes and
impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
NOISE 5.2.7.10
NOISE-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in the exposure
of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established
in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of
other agencies.
Standards for noise generation and exposure in the City of Cupertino are determined primarily through: the
Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines (which would be continued under the noise portion of the
existing Health and Safety Section, maintained as part of Land Use Alternative A); Chapter 10.48, Noise
Control, of the Cupertino Municipal Code; as well as by the interior noise standards set by the Title 24 of
the State Building Code. Aside from the guidelines for land use noise compatibility, the City of Cupertino
has not adopted strict noise reception limits for particular uses, and times of day, and this regulatory
approach would continue under Land Use Alternative A. Therefore, there are three subsequent criteria,
based on applicable standards and regulations, which may be applied to determine impacts under this
significance threshold. Each of these is analyzed in greater detail below.
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Development of new residential or other noise-sensitive land uses such that those new
uses would experience an indoor Ldn exceeding 45 dBA.
Multiple components of Land Use Alternative A would serve to prevent new residential dwellings,
hotels, motels, dormitories, and school classrooms from experiencing interior noise levels in excess of
45 dBA Ldn. Prevention of excessive interior noise levels would be achieved both through adherence to
the Land Use Noise Compatibility Standards included in the noise portion of Health and Safety Section
of the current General Plan, as well as through the performance of acoustical analysis in noisy areas,
which would help determine what, if any, noise attenuating features are necessary to achieve the 45 dBA
Ldn interior noise standard. As individual projects are proposed under Land Use Alternative A, project
applicants would be required to perform site-level acoustic analysis to demonstrate compliance.
Existing Policy 2-6 (Neighborhood Protection; proposed to be renumbered and renamed Policy 2-8:
Neighborhood Compatibility), directs the City to “Protect residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic,
light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments. with adequate buffering setbacks,
landscaping, walls, activity limitations, site design and other appropriate measures.” Previous policies 6-
64, 6-65, and 6-66 contain provisions that require or encourage construction and other techniques to
reduce sound transmission to interior living spaces, consistent with the California Building Code.
Policies 6-64 and 6-65 were deleted because they were already required by the Building and Municipal
Codes. Proposed Policy 6-63, Exterior Sound Transmission Control for New Single-family Homes,
would direct the City to incorporate State building code controls on interior sound transmission in the
Municipal Code. Additionally Chapter 10.48, Noise Ordinance, and Title 19, Zoning Ordinance, of the
Cupertino Municipal Code contain multiple provisions to limit the generation and reception of
excessive noise. Such provisions include, but are not limited to restrictions on construction activity,
strict limitations on noise generation at property lines, and performance standards for the permitting of
commercial and industrial uses.
Under Land Use Alternative A, in areas where noise levels exceed those that are deemed normally
acceptable for a particular land use, development projects would continue to be required to
demonstrate—through acoustical studies—that interior noise environments would comply with the 45
dBA Ldn State standard.
Together, these policies and regulations would serve to ensure that land use and development decisions
consider and seek to prevent potential noise impacts. Through implementation of these existing or new
policies and requirements as part of Land Use Alternative A, the City would ensure compliance with
local and State standards for interior noise, and the impact would be less than significant.
Development of any land use in an area that is characterized by an exterior Ldn which
indicates that the establishment of that land use in the area would be “clearly
unacceptable,” pursuant to the Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines continued
under Land Use Alternative A.
Through adherence to the Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines, the City of Cupertino would
prohibit the development of particular land uses in areas where the ambient noise level would indicate
those land uses would be clearly unacceptable. General Plan Policy 6-49, Land Use Decision Evaluation,
would continue to ensure that City land use decisions adhere to the established compatibility guidelines.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-113
Through continued implementation of these requirements as part of Land Use Alternative A, the City
would ensure compliance with local and State standards for land use compatibility, and the impact
would be less than significant.
Development of a new land use that would result in adjacent properties experiencing
short- or long-term ambient noise levels that exceed those regarded as compatible, or
which exceed levels permitted under the Chapter 10.48 of the Cupertino Municipal
Code.
Under Land Use Alternative A, existing policies of the current General Plan and provisions of the
Cupertino Municipal Code would continue to ensure that new land uses do not contribute to excessive
noise at existing sensitive receptors. Under Land Use Alternative A, the following policies would remain
applicable to future development: Policies 6-57, Commercial Delivery Areas, and 6-58, Delivery Hours,
would continue to ensure that commercial deliveries and delivery areas are regulated to prevent noise
impacts to adjacent sensitive land uses. Policy 6-59, Noise Control Techniques, would similarly serve to
prevent noise impacts from industrial processes and equipment near homes. Additionally, Policy 2-36,
Late-Evening Entertainment Activities, would discourage late night entertainment uses in areas where
these uses would abut low-density residential areas, and would only allow the permitting of such uses
near low-density residential when it could be demonstrated that adequate mitigations had been
undertaken.
Additionally, the maintenance and continued enforcement of the Cupertino Municipal Code, including
the Noise Ordinance and Zoning Code, would work in tandem with and reinforce the current or
amended policies within the General Plan, and any impact arising from violation of applicable local
standards would therefore be less than significant.
Site-Specific Discussion
Project Components (Special Areas, Nodes/Gateways, Study Areas, and Housing Element Sites) are
geographically large and include a diversity of noise environments. The variation in noise levels (from both
land uses and roadways) within each of these areas would be greater than the variation among these areas
(e.g. the range between highest and lowest ambient noise levels in different portions of the Bubb Road
Special Area would be greater than the difference between the “average” noise levels in the Bubb Road
Special Area and any other special center). For this reason, it is not feasible to discuss site-level noise impacts
at the Special Area or Node/Gateway level in the absence of information about specific proposed
development projects. Nevertheless, because many of the Study Areas and Housing Sites are located in areas
with similar noise environments, it is possible to make generalized conclusions about potential noise impacts
in these areas.
Study Areas
Study Areas may be loosely grouped into two non-exclusive categories: Study Areas along or near major
arterials and Study Areas along or near major freeways. As shown in Figure 3-11, in Chapter 3, Project
Description, of this Draft EIR, Study Areas 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center) and 2 (City Center) fall into the
first category, and would experience noise environments dominated by noise along major arterials. Study
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-114 JUNE 18, 2014
Areas 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire), 3 (PG&E), 4 (Mirapath) and 5 (Cupertino Village) are in the
second category where noise from nearby freeways is likely to dominate the noise environment. Study Area
6 (Vallco Shopping District) would fall into both of these categories, as there are portions of the Study Area
that may be more dominated by freeway noise and portions that may be more dominated by noise from
major arterials. All Study Areas have the potential to receive some amount of noise from both highways and
major arterials. Because all of the Study Areas are at least partly located in close proximity to a major
arterial or highway, it is likely that there are por tions of all Study Area where development would require
special noise-insulating features or construction techniques. Therefore, for individual sites located within all
Study Areas, additional project-level acoustical analysis would be necessary to demonstrate conformance
with applicable land use compatibility requirements and interior noise standards; per Sections 19.44.050,
Site Development Regulations, and 19.116.030, General Regulations, of the Zoning Ordinance, as well as
General Plan Policies 6-64, 6-65, and 6-66.
Housing Element Sites
Similar to the Study Areas, the potential Housing Element Sites may be loosely grouped into two non-
exclusive categories: sites along or near major arterials and sites along or near major freeways. As shown in
Figure 3-20, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, the following Housing Element Sites fall
into the former category, with major arterials being the likely predominant source of noise:
Housing Element Site 1 (Shan Restaurant),
Housing Element Site 2 (Arya/Scandinavian Design)
Housing Element Site 3 (United Furniture/East of East Estates Drive)
Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza)
Housing sites 5 (Glenbrook Apartments), 6 (The Villages Apartments), and 7 (Carl Berg Property), fall into
the latter category with freeways being the likely predominant source of noise.
Finally, the following Housing Element Sites are within both categories with portions of the sites potentially
dominated by noise from either freeways or major arterials:
Housing Element Site 4 (Barry Swenson)
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds & Granite Rock)
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 19 (Cypress Building Association & Hall Property)
Although the various Housing Element Sites may be affected in different ways or to different degrees by
noise from major arterials and/or freeways, all Housing Element Sites overlap at least partially with the 70
dBA noise contour, even under existing conditions. Roadway noise models generally represent a
conservative estimate of ambient noise levels; nevertheless, there is no housing site that could avoid the need
for additional site-level measurements and analysis. At a minimum, project-level analysis would need to
examine portions of housing sites nearest to major roadways to measure current, 24-hour ambient noise
levels and determine appropriate site design and/or construction techniques for noise attenuation.
Despite this need for additional site-level analysis, development on the Housing Element Sites may avoid
significant impacts by conforming with requirements for acoustic analysis under the General Plan, including
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-115
the Land Use Compatibility Guidelines for Community Noise Environments, as well as by achieving
subsequent compliance with interior and exterior noise standards through application of any necessary
special construction or noise insulation techniques. Impacts would be less than significant.
General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites
As described in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, the proposed land use designation changes
within the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites are intended to ensure consistency
between existing land uses and the General Plan land use designations and/or the Zoning Ordinance. The
proposed Amendments do not result in increased development potential in these areas. As is currently the
case, future developments would be required to undergo CEQA review in these areas. The General Plan
and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites would not be subject to new development potential and would
therefore neither create new sources of excessive noise, nor result in the development of sensitive land uses
that could be exposed to excessive noise. Thus, there would be no impact with regards to noise at these
locations.
Summary
Through adherence to the requirements, policies, and strategies adopted or continued under the current or
amended General Plan and Cupertino Municipal Code, the City of Cupertino would prevent the
development of land uses in areas with inappropriately high ambient noise levels; would ensure that any
development of noise-sensitive land uses include the study and adequate mitigation of noise impacts; and
would prevent activities or new uses that generate excessive levels of noise at sensitive receptors. Altogether,
this would ensure adherence to relevant noise exposure and generation standards, and would prevent noise-
sensitive land uses from being exposed to noise exceeding the prescribed standards. Therefore the impact
under this criterion would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
CCR, Title 24, Building Standards
Title 21, Subchapter 6, of the CCR
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19: Zoning Ordinance
Chapter 2.90: Design Review Committee
Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations
Title 10: Public Peace, Safety and Morals
Title 11 Vehicles and Traffic
Title 14: Streets, Sidewalks and Landscaping
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-116 JUNE 18, 2014
NOISE-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would expose persons to or
generate excessive ground-borne vibration or ground-borne noise levels.
CEQA does not specify quantitative thresholds for what is considered “excessive” vibration or groundborne
noise, nor does the City of Cupertino establish such thresholds. For Light Industrial and Industrial Park
zones, the City of Cupertino Municipal Code does specify that “nonaudible” vibrations must not be
perceptible without instrumentation, but the Code does not set a specific numeric threshold. Since
perception of vibrations varies between individuals, it is necessary to establish a quantitative threshold that
reflects levels of vibration typically capable of causing perception, annoyance, or damage. Therefore, based
on criteria from the FTA, which are regarded as standard practice, a significant impact would occur if:
Implementation of the Project would result in ongoing exceedance of the criteria for annoyance
presented in Table 4.10-3, in Chapter 4.10, Noise, of this Draft EIR.
Implementation of the Plan would result in vibration exceeding the criteria presented in Table 4.10-3
that could cause buildings architectural damage.
The following discusses potential vibration impacts generated by short-term construction and long-term
operations that may occur under implementation of Land Use Alternative A.
Short-Term Construction-Related Vibration Impacts
The effect on buildings in the vicinity of a construction site varies depending on soil type, ground strata, and
receptor-building construction. The results from vibration can range from no perceptible effects at the
lowest vibration levels, to low rumbling sounds and perceptible vibrations at moderate levels, to slight
structural damage at the highest levels. Vibration from construction activities rarely reaches the levels that
can damage structures, but groundborne vibration and groundborne noise can reach perceptible and audible
levels in buildings that are close to the construction site. Table 5.2-6 lists vibration levels for construction
equipment.
TABLE 5.2‐6 GROUNDBORNE VIBRATION LEVELS FOR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT
Equipment
Approximate Velocity
Level at 25 Feet
(VdB)
Approximate RMSa
Velocity at 25 Feet
(inch/sec)
Pile Driver (Impact) Upper Range 112 1.518
Pile Driver (Impact) Lower Range 104 0.644
Pile Driver (Sonic) Upper Range 105 0.734
Pile Driver (Sonic) Lower Range 93 0.170
Large Bulldozer 87 0.089
Caisson Drilling 87 0.089
Jackhammer 79 0.035
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-117
Small Bulldozer 58 0.003
Loaded Trucks 86 0.076
FTA Criteria – Human Annoyance (Daytime) 78 to 90b —
FTA Criteria – Structural Damage — 0.2 to 0.5c
a. RMS velocity calculated from vibration level (VdB) using the reference of 1 micro‐inch/second.
b. Depending on affected land use. For residential 78 VdB, for offices 84 VdB, workshops 90 VdB.
c. Depending on affected building structure, for timber and masonry buildings 0.2 in/sec, for reinforced‐concrete, steel, or timber 0.5 in/sec.
Source: Federal Transit Administration, Transit Noise, and Vibration Impact Assessment, 2006.
As shown in Table 5.2-6, vibration generated by construction equipment has the potential to be substantial.
Significant vibration impacts may occur from construction activities associated with new development under
Land Use Alternative A. Implementation of Land Use Alternative A anticipates an increase in development
intensity in certain areas, in the absence of information about specific development proposals.
Construction would be localized and would occur intermittently for varying periods of time. Because
specific, project-level information is not available at this time, it is not possible to quantify the construction
vibration impacts at specific sensitive receptors. Grading and demolition activity typically generate the
highest vibration levels during construction. Except for pile driving, maximum vibration levels measured at
a distance of 25 feet from an individual piece of typical construction equipment do not exceed the
thresholds for human annoyance for industrial uses, nor the thresholds for architectural damage.
Methods to reduce vibration during construction would include the use of smaller equipment, use of well-
maintained equipment, use of static rollers instead of vibratory rollers, and drilling of piles as opposed to
pile driving. Methods to reduce human impacts of vibration from construction include limitations on
construction hours and/or guidelines for the positioning of vibration-generating construction equipment.
Overall, vibration impacts related to construction would be short-term, temporary, and generally restricted
to the areas in the immediate vicinity of active construction equipment. Construction would be localized
and would occur intermittently for varying periods of time. Because specific, project-level information is
not available at this time, it is not possible to quantify the construction vibration impacts at specific sensitive
receptors.
These policies would thereby serve to ensure that construction activities do not result in sustained levels of
vibration that could result in architectural damage or ongoing annoyance. Therefore, implementation of
Land Use Alternative A would not result in levels of construction-related groundborne noise or vibration
that would exceed the thresholds for annoyance or architectural damage, and the impact would therefore be
less than significant.
Long-Term Vibration Impacts
Development under Land Use Alternative A could result in long-term, operations-related vibration impacts
to sensitive receptors if sensitive land uses such as residential, educational facilities, hospitals, or places of
worship were to be located in close proximity to industrial land uses that could have equipment with the
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-118 JUNE 18, 2014
potential to generate significant vibration levels. There are limited areas of Cupertino where residential or
other sensitive land uses would interface to a certain degree with light industrial operations under the land
use designations implemented as part of Land Use Alternative A. Some prominent examples of such areas
include the Monta Vista Village Neighborhood and the Bubb Road and North De Anza Special Areas.
Despite the potential for vibration impacts from the juxtaposition of sensitive land uses and land uses with
the potential to generate vibration, appropriate setbacks, buffers, use restrictions, and/or other measures
can largely eliminate these impacts. As discussed above, vibration impacts are highly dependent on a variety
of localized factors, including geology, soil conditions, and building construction techniques; however, in
most cases vibration attenuates relatively rapidly with distance, making setbacks and buffering particularly
effective approaches to avoid vibration impacts. Moreover, high levels of vibration are usually associated with
heavy industrial uses. The light industrial uses of the sort that would continue to be permitted in Cupertino
under Land Use Alternative A are very rarely associated with vibration that is sufficiently intense or
sustained so as to cause human discomfort or architectural/structural damage.
Although there are no State or federal regulations to limit perception of vibration by sensitive receptors,
Land Use Alternative A would continue or introduce an array of policies that would employ the previously
mentioned strategies to prevent vibration impacts. Existing Policy 2-6 (Neighborhood Protection; proposed
to be renumbered and renamed Policy 2-8: Neighborhood Compatibility) directs the City to “Protect
residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense
developments. with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, activity limitations, site design and
other appropriate measures.” Policy 6-61, Construction and Maintenance Activities, would require
construction contractors to use the best available technology to minimize excessive vibration from
construction equipment such as pile drivers, jack hammers, and vibratory rollers. Together, these policies
would serve to ensure that land use and development decisions consider and seek to prevent potential
vibration impacts.
Additional current or amended General Plan policies, as well as Municipal Code provisions, would also
serve to reduce and prevent long-term, operations-related vibration impacts. The current or amended noise
portion of the Health and Safety section of the General Plan offers general direction for the City to consider
noise and vibration impacts during development decisions, and provides specific policies in respect to these
considerations. Policy 6-49, Land Use Decision Evaluation, would require the City to “use the Land Use
Compatibility for Community Noise Environments char t and the City Municipal Code to evaluate land use
decisions.” Section 10.48.062, Nighttime deliveries and pickups, of the Municipal code, serves to regulate
acceptable freight pickup and delivery times for commercial and industrial land uses. Although aimed at
noise compatibility, these restrictions would also serve to reduce the intensity, frequency, and duration of
potential vibration from such activities, thereby reducing or preventing perception of vibration at nearby
receptors. Additionally, Chapter 19, Zoning, of the Municipal Code contains general restrictions on
commercial and industrial uses. In the case of industrial uses, it is prohibited to generate vibration that is
perceptible without instruments beyond the boundary of the industrial zone. In the case of commercial uses,
permitting of the use is contingent upon that use not emitting excessive vibration. By ensuring general land
use compatibility and by requiring, where necessary, approaches to reduce the generation or transmission of
vibration, these policies and ordinances would serve to ensure sufficient attenuation of vibration to preclude
impacts at sensitive receptors.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-119
These policies would ensure that buildout of land uses under Land Use Alternative A would not result in
perception of excessive noise and vibration by sensitive receptors in new developments. These policies and
actions would also serve to ensure that new uses developed under Land Use Alternative A would not result
in the perception of excessive vibration by individuals living or working in areas of existing sensitive land
uses. Through consideration of land use compatibility, project-level review, and requirements for mitigation
of noise and vibration, the current or amended policies of the General Plan would prevent or reduce
exposure to long-term, operations-related vibration. Therefore, implementation of Land Use Alternative A
would not result in levels of long-term operation-related groundborne noise or vibration that would exceed
the thresholds for annoyance or architectural damage, and the impact would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
CCR, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19: Zoning Ordinance
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
NOISE-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would result in a substantial
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the Study Area vicinity above
levels existing without the alternative.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would have a significant impact if it results in a substantial
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without Land Use
Alternative A. The Municipal Code identifies volume levels and durations that constitute unacceptable noise
increases during 2-hour periods; however, the City of Cupertino has not adopted a specific, quantitative
threshold for what constitutes a significant permanent increase in ambient noise levels. The smallest increase
in loudness perceptible by the human ear is 3 dBA and increases of 5 dBA or greater are easily noticed.29
However, the implementation of Land Use Alternative A and changes in the ambient noise environment will
occur over a period of more than 20 years. Therefore, in the absence of quantitative ambient noise level
increase thresholds adopted by the City, a substantial increase in ambient noise levels would be defined as
either: a 5 dBA increase, if after the increase the ambient noise level remains in the range of what would be
“normally acceptable” at the land use where the noise is being received; or a 3 dBA increase, if after the
increase the ambient noise level exceeds the range of what would be “normally acceptable” at the land use
where the noise is being received.
29 Bies, David and Hansen, Colin, 2009, Engineering Noise Control: Theory and Practice, Fourth Edition, New York: Spon Press.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
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Long-Term Operational Noise
A portion of the substantial permanent increases to ambient noise levels that could result from
implementation of Land Use Alternative A would be attributable to ongoing operations on land uses
developed under the plan. Residential, open space, and most passive recreational land uses (i.e. trails, rests
areas, picnic areas) are generally not associated with substantial permanent increases in ambient noise. In the
case of these land uses, very specific sources of noise, such as lawn equipment or social gatherings, would be
the most likely source of excessive noise; addressing impacts from these noise sources would be handled on
a complaint basis by Cupertino’s noise ordinance. Noise sources associated with residential, open space, and
passive recreational land uses are generally not sufficiently frequent or sustained so as to result in permanent
substantial increases to ambient noise levels. Instead, substantial permanent increases in ambient noise levels
would be most likely to result from development of commercial, industrial, mixed-use, and certain
institutional or active recreational land uses (i.e. ball fields, skate-parks, dog parks).
The noise portion of the Health and Safety Section of the General Plan contains multiple policies that would
serve to prevent or mitigate substantial permanent increase to ambient noise levels from long-term
operations. All of the current or amended General Plan policies discussed under Impact NOISE-1 and
Impact NOISE-2 would likewise serve to prevent substantial permanent increases to ambient noise levels.
Key provisions of these previously discussed policies include, among others: limits on hours of operation,
transitional land uses and/or open space buffers, sound walls, berms, and project level review to ensure
compliance with indoor/outdoor noise standards for sensitive uses. Together, these policies would serve to
ensure that the development of new land uses under Land Use Alternative A would not result in substantial
permanent increases in the ambient noise level in the Project Study Area vicinity, and the impact in this
regard would be less than significant.
Transportation-Related Noise
As a result of implementation of Land Use Alternative A and ongoing regional growth, it is anticipated that
there would be substantial permanent increases to the ambient noise levels throughout Cupertino, and that
these increases would primarily result from increases to transportation-related noise, especially that of
automobile traffic. Because Cupertino has only one railway with very limited freight service, does not host
any airports or heliports, and is not located within two (2) miles of any airports or heliports, increases in
ambient noise levels from rail and air traffic are not anticipated. Nevertheless, increases to ambient noise
from car and rail traffic would result in substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels.
Development of land uses under implementation of Land Use Alternative A, as well as development in
adjacent communities, would result in increases in traffic that would cause substantial permanent increases
in ambient noise levels in the Project Study Area vicinity. Table 5.2-7 shows major roadway segments in
Cupertino with estimated increases in the ambient noise level at a distance of 100 feet from the roadway
centerline.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-121
TABLE 5.2‐7 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
Homestead Rd
From City Boundary to SR 85 65.0 66.2 1.2
From SR 85 to N Stelling Rd 67.8 69.4 1.6
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 69.6 70.1 0.5
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 68.7 70.5 1.8
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 68.9 70.8 1.9
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 69.1 71.1 2.0
From N Tantau Ave to City Boundary 68.9 71 2.1
Pruneridge Ave
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 63.1 64.5 1.4
From N Tantau Ave to Lawrence Expwy 63.6 69.3 5.7
I‐280
From City Boundary to Foothill Blvd 81.2 81.8 0.6
From Foothill Blvd to SR 85 82.2 82.9 0.7
From SR 85 to N Stelling Rd 81.8 82.1 0.3
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 81.8 82 0.2
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 81.8 81.9 0.1
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 81.8 81.9 0.1
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 81.9 82.2 0.3
From N Tantau Ave to I‐280 81.9 82.2 0.3
From I‐280 to Lawrence Expwy 80.2 82.2 2.0
Stevens Creek Blvd
From City Boundary to Foothill Blvd 60.0 61.9 1.9
From Foothill Blvd to Bubb Rd 67.3 68.5 1.2
From Bubb Rd to SR 85 70.1 71.4 1.3
From SR 85 N Stelling Rd 70.4 71 0.6
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 69.2 71 1.8
Stevens Creek Blvd
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 68.9 71.2 2.3
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 68.8 71.5 2.7
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 70.6 71.9 1.3
From S Tantau Ave to I‐280 70.9 71.8 0.9
From I‐280 to Lawrence Expwy 70.6 72.5 1.9
McClellan Rd
From Foothill Blvd/Stevens Canyon Rd to Bubb Rd 60.8 63.2 2.4
From Bubb Rd to SR 85 63.3 64.4 1.1
From SR 85 to S Stelling Rd 64.0 65 1.0
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 64.6 65 0.4
Bollinger Rd
From S De Anza Blvd to S Blaney Ave 67.6 69.6 2.0
From S Blaney Ave to Miller Ave 65.1 67.3 2.2
From Miller Ave to S Tantau Ave 64.4 68 3.6
From S Tantau Ave to Lawrence Expwy 68.9 71 2.1
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TABLE 5.2‐7 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
Rainbow Dr
From Bubb Rd to S Stelling Rd 58.9 61.5 2.6
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 65.5 66 0.5
Prospect Rd From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 65.1 65.9 0.8
Foothill Blvd
From City Boundary to I‐280 71.7 73.6 1.9
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 70.6 70.8 0.2
From McClellan Rd to Stevens Creek Blvd 65.2 66 0.8
Stevens Canyon Rd From City Boundary to McClellan Rd 61.8 63.5 1.7
Bubb Rd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 67.6 69.1 1.5
From Rainbow Dr to McClellan Rd 62.5 63.5 1.0
SR 85 From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 80.8 80.9 0.1
SR 85
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 80.8 80.7 ‐0.1
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 81.4 81.8 0.4
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From McClellan Rd to S Stelling Rd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From S De Anza Blvd to Prospect Rd 80.5 80.5 0.0
Hollenbeck Ave
(N. Stelling Rd) From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 60.0 60.4 0.4
N Stelling Rd
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 63.2 65.9 2.7
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 63.1 65.9 2.8
S Stelling Rd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 61.7 68.9 7.2
From McClellan Rd to SR 85 59.0 62.7 3.7
From SR 85 to Rainbow Dr 58.8 62.1 3.3
From Rainbow Dr to Prospect Rd 59.7 61.4 1.7
N De Anza Blvd
From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 73.1 73.6 0.5
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 74.5 74.5 0.0
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 72.9 73.9 1.0
S De Anza Blvd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 71.9 73 1.1
From McClellan Rd to Bollinger Rd 72.0 73.3 1.3
From Bollinger Rd to SR 85 71.7 72.4 0.7
From SR 85 to Rainbow Dr 72.2 72.9 0.7
From Rainbow Dr to Prospect Rd 72.5 72.4 ‐0.1
N Blaney Ave
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 60.8 63 2.2
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 61.0 62.3 1.3
S Blaney Ave
From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 55.7 56.3 0.6
From Bollinger Rd to Prospect Rd 59.1 60.1 1.0
N Wolfe Rd
From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 67.6 70.6 3.0
From Homestead Rd to Pruneridge Ave 69.7 71.4 1.7
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-123
TABLE 5.2‐7 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
From Pruneridge Ave to I‐280 70.2 72 1.8
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 68.3 70.5 2.2
Miller Ave
From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 65.5 68.9 3.4
From Bollinger Rd to City Boundary 65.4 66.8 1.4
N Tantau Ave
From Homestead Rd to Pruneridge Ave 47.4 64.1 16.7
From Pruneridge Ave to I‐280 50.3 61.4 11.1
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 61.2 64 2.8
S Tantau Ave From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 58.7 58.1 ‐0.6
Lawrence Expwy
From Pruneridge Ave to Stevens Creek Blvd 75.4 77 1.6
From Stevens Creek Blvd to I‐280 74.9 77 2.1
From I‐280 to Bollinger Rd 75.5 77.4 1.9
Bold numbers indicate increases in CNEL which would constitute substantial permanent increase in ambient noise level.
Source: Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Inc., 2014; PlaceWorks, 2014
As discussed above, increases greater than 5.0 dBA would automatically constitute a substantial permanent
increase to the ambient noise level, therefore an increase would be readily noticeable. Increases greater than
3.0 dBA would be considered substantial and permanent if the resulting CNEL would exceed that which is
considered normally acceptable for the receiving land use. The ambient noise level increases shown in Table
5.2-7 and the future 2040 Noise Contours in Figure 5.2-1, demonstrate that there would be multiple major
road segments that would experience substantial permanent increases in ambient noise levels, including at
sensitive land uses.
The General Plan contains numerous policies to address excessive roadway noise at existing sensitive land
uses, which would be continued under Land Use Alternative A. For instance, Policy 6-51, Stricter State
Noise Laws, would direct the City to continue enforcement of existing street laws regarding vehicle noise,
and to support enactment of stricter State standards. Policy 6-53, Traffic Calming Solutions to Street Noise,
directs the City to explore traffic calming approaches for residential streets. Policies 6-54 through 6-56
direct the City to use a combination of restrictions and street improvements to reduce noise from trucks.
Altogether, these policies would serve to reduce noise from vehicles at the source and to otherwise shield
sensitive uses from excessive noise. Although these policies could in certain cases reduce or prevent
significant increases in ambient noise at sensitive land uses under implementation of Land Use Alternative A,
the measures described in these policies would not be universally feasible, and some of the most effective
noise-attenuation measures, including sound walls and berms, would be infeasible or inappropriate in a
majority of locations where sensitive land uses already exist. Factors which would render these mitigations
infeasible include but are not limited to cost, aesthetic considerations, and negative impacts to pedestrian
and bicycle connectivity. Therefore, even after the application of relevant, feasible regulations and General
Plan policies, the impact to ambient noise levels would remain significant.
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NOISECITY OF CUPERTINOGENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING PROJECT
Figure 5.2-12040 Noise Contours – Land Use Alternative A
Source: City of Cupertino, 2013; MIG, Inc, 2014; PlaceWorks, 2014; ESRI, 2010.
0 0.5 10.25
Miles
60 dBA CNEL contour65 dBA CNEL contour70 dBA CNEL contour
City Boundary
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-125
Applicable Regulations
CCR, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19: Zoning Ordinance
Chapter 2.90: Design Review Committee
Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations
Title 10: Public Peace, Safety and Morals
Title 11 Vehicles and Traffic
Title 14: Streets, Sidewalks and Landscaping
Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measures were considered, but as described below, were found to be infeasible.
Technological Advances for Noise-Generating Vehicles and Machinery
Most urban noise results from the use of machinery or vehicles, including manufacturing equipment, HVAC
units, automobiles, motorcycles, trains, and aircraft, among others. The implementation of improved
technologies for the prevention or muffling of noise from these sources could theoretically prevent
substantial increases to ambient noise levels; however, this approach would be infeasible as much of this
implementation is beyond the jurisdiction of the City.
Beyond currently-accepted State and industry standards and best practices, developing and/or requiring
novel technological improvements for noise-generating vehicles and machinery would not be affordable,
scientifically plausible, or within the City’s jurisdiction. Therefore, this potential mitigation measure is
regarded as infeasible.
Universal Use of Noise-Attenuating Features
The universal use of noise attenuating features, such as rubberized asphalt, soundwalls, berms, and
improved building sound-insulation, could prevent transmission of excessive noise to the outdoor and
indoor areas of sensitive land uses and/or could prevent projected increases in ambient noise levels;
however, this approach would be infeasible.
Rubberized asphalt reduces tire-pavement noise and, when new, achieves a reduction of approximately 4
dBA when compared to normal pavement surfaces.30 However, the noise reduction properties degrade over
time, and the noise reduction would not be sufficient to reduce noise impacts in many areas of Cupertino. In
30 Sacramento County, Department of Environmental Review and Assessment, 1999, Report of the Status of Rubberized Asphalt Traffic
Noise Reduction in Sacramento County.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-126 JUNE 18, 2014
many cases, aesthetic concerns, costs, physical constraints, or other issues would prevent the universal
implementation of adequate noise-attenuating features. In addition to their expense, soundwalls often block
views and are regarded as unsightly. Moreover, the construction of soundwalls can result in reduced
pedestrian and vehicle connectivity, which would contravene other goals of the General Plan and have
negative social, economic, and even environmental consequences. Although improved building construction
and insulation beyond that which is required by California Title 24 and the current General Plan could
further reduce indoor exposure to excessive noise, substantial outdoor increases to ambient noise levels
would remain. Therefore, this potential mitigation measure is regarded as infeasible.
For this noise impact, there is no feasible mitigation for preventing substantial increases in ambient noise
levels, since all conceivable mitigations would be economically impractical, scientifically unachievable,
outside the City’s jurisdiction, and/or inconsistent with City planning goals and objectives. Impacts would
remain significant and unavoidable because no feasible mitigation measures are available to mitigate noise
impacts to a less than significant level, resulting in a significant and unavoidable impact.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and Unavoidable.
NOISE-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would result in a
substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the
Project Study Area vicinity above levels existing without the future
development.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would have a significant impact if it results in a substantial
temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without
Land Use Alternative A.
Noise from construction equipment and various construction-related activities is frequently a cause of
temporary or periodic increases in ambient noise levels. Table 5.2-8, below, shows typical noise levels
generated by commonly-used pieces of construction equipment. Although the current or amended policies
of the General Plan and the provisions of the noise ordinance would serve to prevent or reduce noise
generation from construction equipment, it is likely that in certain cases these and other available methods
to reduce noise would be inadequate to prevent a significant impact.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-127
TABLE 5.2‐8 CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NOISE EMISSION LEVELS
Construction
Equipment
Typical Noise Level (dBA)
at 50 Feet
Construction
Equipment
Typical Noise Level (dBA)
at 50 Feet
Air Compressor 81 Pile‐Driver (Impact) 101
Backhoe 80 Pile‐Driver (Sonic) 96
Ballast Equalizer 82 Pneumatic Tool 85
Ballast Tamper 83 Pump 76
Compactor 82 Rail Saw 90
Concrete Mixer 85 Rock Drill 98
Concrete Pump 71 Roller 74
Concrete Vibrator 76 Saw 76
Crane, Derrick 88 Scarifier 83
Crane, Mobile 83 Scraper 89
Dozer 85 Shovel 82
Generator 81 Spike Driver 77
Grader 85 Tie Cutter 84
Impact Wrench 85 Tie Handler 80
Jack Hammer 88 Tie Inserter 85
Loader 85 Truck 88
Paver 89
Source: Federal Transit Administration, Transit Noise, and Vibration Impact Assessment, 2006.
By restricting hours of construction and directing the City to review project noise impacts as part of the
planning and permitting processes, the current or amended policies of the General Plan would serve to
reduce temporary or periodic increases to ambient noise. The Noise Portion of the Health and Safety
Section of the General Plan directs the City to consider project-level noise impacts as part of the
environmental evaluation and approval process for individual development proposals. Specifically, Policies 6-
61 and 6-62 of the General Plan, respectively, direct the City to limit the hours for construction activities
(with limited exceptions for urgent or emergency maintenance work) and to regulate construction and
maintenance activities, such as through requirements for up-to-date construction equipment. Through
continued implementation of these current or new policies, Land Use Alternative A would serve to
minimize temporary or periodic impacts to ambient noise levels from construction activities.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-128 JUNE 18, 2014
Section 10.48.053, Grading, Construction and Demolition, of the Cupertino Municipal Code, also serves to
regulate noise from construction and related activities in Cupertino. Subsection A places an 87 dBA limit on
noise levels from construction equipment at a distance of 25 feet, as well as an 80 dBA limit on noise levels
at nearby properties. Additionally, Subsections C and D limit construction activities to weekdays, non-
holidays, and daytime hours, with limited exceptions. The noise chapter thus limits construction activities to
7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays, and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends. However, the ordinance
allows exceptions under Sections 10.48.030 and 10.48.031, which allow construction outside of these
hours, under certain conditions. However, these are used in very special circumstances such as emergencies
or when are unavoidable as a result of necessary construction techniques. Subsection E places additional
restrictions on the use of helicopters for construction purposes, including noticing requirements.
Although it is possible that certain construction activities may in some cases, lead to substantial temporary
or periodic increases to ambient noise levels, the current and proposed policies and regulations included
under Land Use Alternative A and the Municipal Code would serve to reduce these impacts. With
appropriate noise reduction and shielding measures, t temporary or periodic increases to the ambient noise
level that could be substantially reduced. The policies of the General Plan and regulations of the Municipal
Code, would thereby reduce the impacts from temporary or periodic increases to ambient noise levels, and
the impact would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
CCR, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19: Zoning Ordinance
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than Significant.
NOISE-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to noise.
The analysis of Land Use Alternative A, discussed above, addresses cumulative impacts in regard to noise, as
well as groundborne noise and vibration. Although multiple simultaneous nearby noise sources may, in
combination, result in higher overall noise levels, this effect is captured and accounted for by the ambient
noise level metrics which form the basis of the Thresholds of Significance for noise analysis. Any
measurement of sound or ambient noise, whether for the purpose of evaluating land use compatibility,
establishing compliance with exterior and interior noise standards, or determining point-source violations
of a noise ordinance, necessarily will incorporate noise from all other nearby perceptible sources.
Additionally, although noise attenuation is influenced by a variety of topographical, meteorological, and
other factors, noise levels decrease relatively rapidly with distance, and vibration impacts decrease even
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-129
more rapidly. Therefore, site-level cumulative noise or vibration impacts across city boundaries occur only
infrequently. The City of Cupertino shares borders with other incorporated communities and similarly
urbanized areas, which makes cross-border cumulative noise and vibration impacts possible. Nevertheless,
given the General Plan policies and Municipal Code requirements discussed above, it is unlikely that
operations-related noise would, in combination with noise sources from adjacent cities, result in cumulative
noise impacts. Additionally, because any noise measurements taken in conjunction with General Plan
policies or Municipal Code requirements would necessarily account for noises received from outside the
boundaries of the City of Cupertino, the ongoing implementation of these policies and regulations under
Land Use Alternative A would serve to prevent site-based cumulative noise impacts.
Similarly, the noise contours and traffic-related noise levels developed for Land Use Alternative A include
and account for regional travel patterns as they affect traffic levels in Cupertino. Noise contours were based
upon both existing and projected future traffic volumes that incorporate cumulative regional effects and
trends. Existing noise contours were derived from traffic volumes based on counts of current traffic, and
these traffic counts inherently include cumulative traffic, as generated by regional trips. In regard to future
noise, projected noise contours were determined using projected 2040 traffic volumes; these data account
for growth both within Cupertino under Land Use Alternative A, as well as anticipated regional growth. The
future noise modeling which served as the foundation for the overall Project analysis was therefore based on
future, cumulative conditions.
Impacts NOISE-3 and NOISE-4 therefore encompass and address cumulative noise impacts from
implementation of Land Use Alternative A. As discussed under Impact NOISE-3, even after the application
of pertinent policies and action of the General Plan Amendments, as well as all feasible mitigation measures
considered but determined to be infeasible described above under Impact NOISE-3, these impacts would
remain significant and unavoidable.
Significance Without Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
POPULATION AND HOUSING 5.2.7.11
POP-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not induce substantial
unexpected population growth, or growth for which inadequate planning
has occurred, either directly or indirectly.
Land Use Alternative A would result in a significant impact related to population growth if it would lead to
substantial unplanned growth, either directly or indirectly. As described in Chapter 3, Project Description,
of the Draft EIR, Land Use Alternative A is a broad, high-level plan and no specific projects are currently
proposed and therefore, Land Use Alternative A would not result in direct growth; however,
implementation of Land Use Alternative A would facilitate growth in the Project Study Area through 2040,
and therefore would have indirect effects related to growth. Potential impacts stemming from the indirect
inducement of unplanned population growth are discussed below in relation to both local and regional
planning efforts.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-130 JUNE 18, 2014
Local Planning
The developable area of Cupertino is already largely built out and the Project Study Area is well served by
utility and transportation infrastructure. Future housing development and redevelopment under Land Use
Alternative A would be infill development and would be concentrated on the sites identified in Section
3.7.4, Housing Element Sites, of Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR. The General Plan
includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would serve to accommodate future growth through
2040. Within the Land Use and Community Design Element, Policy 2-1, Focus Development in Mixed-Use
Special Areas, would require the City to, in the mixed-use Special Areas where office, commercial and
residential uses are allowed, focus higher intensity development and increased building heights where
appropriate in designated corridors, gateways and nodes. Policy 2-17, Multi-Family Residential Design,
would require the City to maintain a superior living environment for multi-family dwellings. Strategy 1,
Relationship to Street, directs the City to relate building entrances to the street, utilizing porches or stoops.
Strategy 2, Provision of Outdoor Areas, would require the City to provide outdoor areas, both passive and
active, and generous landscaping to enhance the surroundings for multi-family residents. Allow public access
to the common outdoor areas whenever possible. Policy 2-22, Jobs/Housing Balance, would require the
City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Strategy 1, Housing and Mixed-Use,
would require the City to strive to achieve a balanced jobs/housing ratio based on the policies and strategies
contained in the Housing Element. Strategy 2, Housing Impact on Local Schools, recognizes that since the
quality of Cupertino schools (elementary and high school) is a primary asset of the City, care shall be taken
to ensure any new housing will not adversely impact these systems.
Within the Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services Element, Policy 7-4, New Development Public
Infrastructure Requirements, would require the City to require new development to provide adequate
public facilities or pay its fair share of the cost for public facilities needed to provide services to
accommodate growth without adversely impacting current service levels. Strategy 1, Design Capacity,
would require the City to ensure that public facilities and infrastructure are designed and constructed to
meet ultimate capacity needs to avoid the need for future upsizing. For facilities subject to incremental
upsizing, initial design shall include adequate land area and any other elements not easily expanded in the
future. Infrastructure and facility planning should discourage over-sizing of infrastructure which could
contribute to growth beyond what was anticipated in the General Plan. Strategy 2, Utility Undergrounding,
would require the City to require undergrounding of all new publicly owned utility lines. Encourage
undergrounding of all privately owned utility lines in new developments. Work with electricity and
telecommunications providers to underground existing overhead lines. Policy 5-2, Regional Growth and
Transportation Coordination, would require the City to “coordinate with regional and local agencies to
prepare updates to regional growth plans and strategies.” Strategy 1 under this policy would direct the City
to maintain local plans and strategies that are consistent with regional transportation and housing plans.
Policy 7-3, Sewer Tributary Lines, would require the City to recognize that new high discharge users in the
Vallco, Stevens Creek Boulevard and Blaney Avenue areas will require private developers to pay for the
upgrading of tributary lines. Strategy 1, Cost Estimates, would require the City to develop preliminary cost
estimates for the upgrading of the sewer tributary lines to discuss with prospective developers.
Within the Housing Element, Policy 1, Provision of Adequate Capacity for New Construction Need, would
require the City to designate sufficient land at appropriate densities to accommodate Cupertino’s Regional
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-131
Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) of 1,064 units for the 2014-2022 RHNA planning period. Policy 2,
Housing Densities, would require the City to provide a full range of densities for ownership and rental
housing. Policy 3, Mixed Use Development, would require the City to encourage mixed-use development
near transportation facilities and employment centers. Policy 4, Housing Mitigation, would require the City
to ensure that all new developments—including market-rate residential developments—help mitigate
project-related impact on affordable housing needs. Policy 5, Range of Housing Types, would require the
City to encourage the development of diverse housing stock that provides a range of housing types
(including smaller, moderate cost housing) and affordability levels. Emphasize the provision of housing for
lower- and moderate-income households and also households with wage earners who provide essential
public services (e.g. school district employees, municipal and public safety employees, etc.). Policy 6,
Development of Affordable Housing and Housing for Persons with Special Needs, would require the City to
maintain and/or adopt appropriate land use regulations and other development tools to encourage the
development of affordable housing. Make every reasonable effort to disperse units throughout the
community but not at the expense of undermining the fundamental goal of providing affordable units. Policy
7, Housing Rehabilitation, would require the City to pursue and/or provide funding for the
acquisition/rehabilitation of housing that is affordable to very low-, low-, and moderate-income households.
Actively support and assist non-profit and for-profit developers in producing affordable units. Policy 8,
Maintenance and Repair, would require the City to assist lower-income homeowners and rental property
owners in maintaining and repairing their housing units. Policy 9, Conservation of Housing Stock, would
require the City to preserve the existing inventory of affordable housing units that are at risk of converting
to market-rate housing. Policy 10, Energy and Water Conservation, would require the City to encourage
energy and water conservation in all existing and new residential development. Policy 11, Lower Income
and Special Needs Households, would require the City to support organizations that provide services to
lower income households and special need households in the City, such as the homeless, elderly, disabled and
single parent households. Policy 12, Housing Discrimination, would require the City to work to eliminate
on a citywide basis all unlawful discrimination in housing with respect to age, race, sex, sexual orientation,
marital or familial status, ethnic background, medical condition, or other arbitrary factors, so that all
persons can obtain decent housing.
The City currently has the capacity to accommodate 1,895 housing units. Implementation of these General
Plan policies would ensure that local planning is adequate to accommodate future growth in Cupertino.
Regional Planning
As described above, ABAG and MTC have responsibility for regional planning initiatives in the nine county
Bay Area which includes Cupertino. ABAG and MTC have developed regional growth forecasts for the Bay
Area as a whole and for constituent jurisdictions. Table 5.2-9 below shows population, housing, and job
growth projections for Cupertino that are included in the regional forecasts. This Alternative would be
considered to induce substantial growth if the estimated buildout resulting from future development that is
permitted under this Alternative would exceed these regional growth projections for Cupertino. Land Use
Alternative A’s 2040 buildout estimates are shown in Table 5.2-1.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-132 JUNE 18, 2014
TABLE 5.2‐9 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A ESTIMATED POPULATION, HOUSEHOLD, AND EMPLOYMENT
Land Use
Alternative A 2013 2040
Growth Rate
Percent
Population 5,571 58,302 63,873 10%
Households 1,895 21,399 23,294 15%
Jobs 5,206c 27,387 32,593 19%
a. Percent are rounded to the nearest whole number.
b. Population is calculated by 3,316 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
c. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 1,040,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square
feet equals 3,467 jobs; 701,431 square feet of commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 1,559 jobs; and 600 hotel
rooms at .3 jobs per room equals 180 jobs for a total of 5,206 jobs.
Source: Association of Bay Area Governments, Plan Bay Area, Projections 2013, Subregional Study Area Table, Santa Clara County and
the City of Cupertino, 2014.
As shown in Table 5.2-9, implementation of the Land Use Alternative A would result in a total of 1,895 new
households in the city for a total of 23,294 households for the buildout horizon year 2040. Assuming the
new dwelling units permitted under this Alternative would have the average 2.94 persons per household size
as applied in ABAG Projections 2013, population in the city could increase by 5,571 residents for a total of
68,873 residents by 2040. By comparison, ABAG anticipates 3,861 new households and 12,961 new
residents in Cupertino, for a total of 24,180 households and 71,700 residents by 2040.31 While Land Use
Alternative A would result in 2,827 fewer residents and 1,966 fewer units, the rate of growth under this
Alternative and estimated by ABAG would be the less for population growth (i.e. 10 percent compared to
22 percent) and household growth (15 compared to 19 percent). Consequently, the additional housing units
resulting from implementation of this Alternative would not substantially exceed regional projections.32
With respect to jobs, ABAG projects an increase of 7,040 jobs for a total of 33,360 jobs in 2040. As shown
in Table 5.2-9, when applying the City’s job generation rates for office, commercial and hotel
development,33 buildout of this Alternative could result in as many as 5,206 additional jobs for a total of
32,593 jobs in 2040, which would be within the regional job projections (19 percent compared to 27
percent).
The General Plan includes policies and strategies, which are consistent with goals and objectives identified
in the Plan Bay Area, would ensure potential development under Land Use Alternative A, would not induce
substantial unexpected population growth, or growth for which inadequate planning has occurred, either
directly or indirectly. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-2, Connections Between
Special Areas, Employment Centers and the Community, would require the City to provide strong
connections between the mixed-use Special Areas, employment centers and the surrounding community.
Policy 2-15, Urban Building Forms, would require the City to concentrate urban building forms in the
31 Association of Bay Area Governments, Plan Bay Area, Projections 2013, Subregional Study Area Table, Santa Clara County.
32 4,421 households minus 3,861 households equals 560 households. 12,998 residents minus 12,961 residents equals 37 residents.
33 Office (300 square feet per job); Commercial (450 square feet per job); Hotel (.3 jobs per room).
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-133
mixed-use Special Areas. Policy 2-24, Homestead Special Area, would require the City to create an
integrated, mixed-use commercial and housing village within the Homestead Special Area, consisting of
three integrated areas. Each area will be master planned, with special attention to the interconnectivity of
these areas. Additionally, this corridor will continue to be a predominantly mixed-use area with residential
uses and a series of commercial centers. Homestead Road provides new pedestrian crossings at the major
intersections. Policy 2-24.B, Stelling Gateway, would require the City to Maintain and enhance the Stelling
Gateway as a medium density, mixed-use commercial and housing district that will provide community
identity and activity along Homestead Road. Policy 2-25, North Vallco Park Special Area, would require the
City to retain the North Vallco Park Special Area as an employment area of predominately office and light
industrial activities, with neighborhood commercial uses and ancillary uses including hotels and retail uses.
Additionally, this policy would require the City to maintain the existing residential uses. Policy 2-25.A,
North Vallco Gateway, would require the City to maintain and enhance the North Vallco Gateway with uses
that support major office developments within the City including hotels and commercial uses. Existing
residential development would also be maintained. Policy 2-26, Heart of the City Special Area, would
require the City to create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of mixed-use
development; enhanced activity gateways and nodes; and safe and efficient circulation and access for all
modes of transportation. Policy 2-26.B, Oaks Gateway, would require the City to create an active, mixed-
use shopping and residential gateway at one of the primary entrances to Cupertino. Policy 2-26.D,
Crossroads Area, would require the City to create an active, pedestrian-oriented shopping district along
Stevens Creek Boulevard, between De Anza Boulevard and Stelling Road, where commercial and roadway
design encourage pedestrian activity. Policy 2-26.E, City Center Node, would require the City to maintain
and enhance City Center Node as a moderate-scale, medium density, mixed use district that will provide
community identity and activity and will support retail uses in the Crossroads Area. Policy 2-26.G, South
Vallco Park Gateway, would require the City to retain and enhance South Vallco Park Gateway as a large-
scale commercial area that is a regional commercial (including hotel), office and entertainment center with
supporting residential development. Policy 2-27, North De Anza Special Area, would require the City to
maintain and enhance the North De Anza Special Area as a regional employment center with supporting
commercial and residential land uses. Policy 2-28, South De Anza Special Area, would require the City to
maintain and enhance the South De Anza Special Area as a mixed-use corridor.
Growth under the Land Use Alternative A would come incrementally over a period of approximately 26
years and would be guided by a policy framework in Land Use Alternative A that is generally consistent with
many of the principal goals and objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area. As
discussed above, one of the key concepts of the Plan Bay Area is the idea of focusing future growth into
transit-oriented, infill development opportunity areas within existing communities that are expected to host
the majority of future development. The PDAs (i.e. transit-oriented, infill development opportunity areas
within existing communities that are expected to host the majority of future development) in Cupertino are
located along Stevens Creek Boulevard between SR 85 and the City of Santa Clara and along De Anza
Boulevard between Stevens Creek Boulevard and the City of Sunnyvale.
As shown in Figure 4.11-1 in Chapter 4.11, Population and Housing, of this Draft EIR, the PDAs coincide
with the Heart of the City, Homestead, South De Anza, and North De Anza Major Mixed-Use Special Areas,
Study Area 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire), Study Area 2 (City Center), Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping
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District), Study Area 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center), as well as potential the following Housing Element
Sites:
Housing Element Site 1 (Shan Restaurant)
Housing Element Site 2 (Arya/Scandinavian Design)
Housing Element Site 3 (United Furniture/East of East Estates Drive)
Housing Element Site 4 (Barry Swenson)
Housing Element Site 5 (Glenbrook Apartments)
Housing Element Site 13 (Loree Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza)
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 19 (Cypress Building Association & Hall Property)
Therefore, growth anticipated under this Alternative would not exceed regional growth projections for
Cupertino and this additional growth would be consistent with the regional planning objectives established
for the Bay Area. Further, this additional growth would come incrementally over a period of approximately
26 years and a policy framework is in place to ensure adequate planning occurs to accommodate it. As a
result, impacts to population growth associated with potential future development under this Alternative
would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
POP-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not displace substantial
numbers of existing housing units, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere.
As previously described, implementation of Land Use Alternative A would include General Plan Zoning
designation and development standard amendments the following Housing Element Sites:
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds and Granite Rock). The permitted density would
increase from 15 du/ac to 25 du/ac and the Zoning designation would be changed from Planned
Development with General Commercial and Residential (P(CG, Res 5-15)) to (P(CG, Res)).
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center). The Zoning designation would change
from P(CG) to Planned Development with General Commercial, Residential, and Professional Office
(P(CG, Res, OP)) to allow for future mixed-use development including residential uses.
There are no existing residential units at these two Housing Element Sites; thus, the proposed Zoning
designation and development standard amendments on the remaining Housing Element Sites would not
result in the displacement of housing necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere.
Implementation of the Land Use Alternative A would result in a net increase of housing units under Land
Use Alternative A. Therefore, construction of replacement housing elsewhere would not be necessary and
the impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
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POP-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not displace substantial
numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere.
As described under Impact POP-2 above, potential future development potential Housing Elements Site
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds and Granite Rock) and 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)would not
involve the demolition and replacement of existing housing units, which could result in the temporary
displacement of some residents and the construction of replacement housing elsewhere would not be
warranted; thus, the impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
POP-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to population and housing.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative A within the Cupertino city
boundary and SOI, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County
and the surrounding region, as forecast by ABAG. Impacts from cumulative growth are considered in the
context of their consistency with regional planning efforts. As described above, Land Use Alternative A
would not induce a substantial amount of growth or require the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere. Cumulative growth would be consistent with regional planning efforts. Thus, when considered
along with Land Use Alternative A, which, as described in the above sections, would not exceed regional
growth projections, cumulative growth would not displace substantial numbers of people or housing or
exceed planned levels of growth and cumulative impacts, would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PUBLIC SERVICES AND RECREATION 5.2.7.12
Fire Protection Services
PS-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in the provision
of or need for new or physically altered fire protection facilities, the
construction or operation of which could cause significant environmental
impacts.
Future development permitted under this Alternative would result in 5,571 additional residents and up to
5206 new jobs, which would result in an in increase in the number of would require fire protection, and
emergency medical services. Subsequently, the expansion or construction of new or physically altered fire
protection facilities, which could result in significant environmental impacts, could be required. However,
development would occur incrementally throughout the 26-year buildout horizon, therefore, not resulting
in potential impacts to fire protection services in the immediate future or all at one time. Further, under this
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Alternative, commercial space and residential development allocation would not be replenished; therefore,
this Alternative would not result in additional would require service beyond what has currently been
accounted for with respect to potential future commercial and residential development.
Additionally, compliance with Subsections 105.1.4 (Construction permit fees) and 105.1.5 (Operational
permit fees) under Section 16.40.065, Permits, of the Municipal Code, as described in Section 4.12.1.1,
Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, in this Draft EIR, would require
future development to undergo plan review and approval by the Santa Clara County Fire District (SCCFD)
to ensure that future projects comply with State, and local fire codes, as well as ensure adequate safety
features are incorporated into building design to minimize risk of fire.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate fire protection
services are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-4, Wild
Fire Prevention Efforts, would require the City to coordinate wild fire prevention efforts with adjacent
jurisdictions. Policy 6-8, Early Project Review, would require the City to involve the Fire Department in the
early design stage of all projects requiring public review to assure Fire Department input and modifications
as needed. Policy 6-9, Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection Guidelines, would require the City to
coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new guidelines for fire protection for commercial and
industrial land uses. Policy 6-11, Multi-Story Buildings Fire Risks, would require the City to recognize that
multi-story buildings of any land use type increase risks of fire, and to ensure that adequate fire protection is
built into the design and require on-site fire suppression materials and equipment to ensure the safety of the
community. Policy 6-12, Smoke Detectors, would require the City to require smoke detectors in all new
residential units and in all residential units at the time of sale or rental, in conformance with State law, and
to continue to use the Cupertino Scene to publicize fire hazards correction methods. Strategy 1, Code
Amendment, would require the City to adopt an ordinance to incorporate the smoke detector requirement
in Chapter 16.04 of the Cupertino Municipal Code. Policy 6-13, Roadway Design, would require the City
to involve the Fire Department in the design and review of public roadways for review and comments, and
to attempt to ensure that roadways have frequent median breaks for timely access to properties. Policy 6-15,
Hillside Access Routes, would require the City to require new hillside development to have frequent grade
breaks in access routes to ensure a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-16, Hillside Road
Upgrades, would require the City to require new hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to
meet Fire Code and City standards. Policy 6-20, Growth Cooperation, would require the City to encourage
cooperation between water utility companies and the Fire Department in order to keep water systems in
pace with growth and firefighting service needs. Policy 6-21, Fire Fighting Upgrades Needs, would require
the City to encourage water providers to consider Fire Department firefighting needs when upgrading
public water systems. Future development would also be required to comply with the City’s Fire Code per
Chapter 16.40 (Fire Code), including compliance with the permit processes, emergency access, hazardous
material handling, and fire protection systems, including automatic sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers,
and fire alarms. Further, future development would be required to comply with the City-adopted 2010
California Fire Code (CFC) and 2009 International Fire Code. Consequently, compliance with the State and
local regulations, in conjunction with compliance with the above listed General Plan policies, would ensure
that potential impacts under this Alternative remain less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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PS-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to fire protection service.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would facilitate new development, including residential, mixed-
use, and commercial, within Cupertino, which could result in the provision of or need for new or physically
altered fire protection facilities, the construction or operation of which could cause a significant
environmental impact, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecasted by the ABAG. However, under this Alternative,
commercial space and residential development allocation would not be replenished.
Cumulative impacts are considered in the context of the growth from development under this Alternative
within the city combined with the estimated growth in the service area of the SCCFD, which includes the
cities of Campbell, Los Altos, Monte Sereno, Saratoga, and towns of Los Altos Hills and Los Gatos. A
significant cumulative environmental impact would result if this cumulative growth would exceed the ability
of SCCFD to adequately serve their service area, thereby requiring construction of new facilities or
modification of existing facilities.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A is unlikely to create a need for new or physically altered facilities
in order for the SCCFD to provide fire protection services to its service area because compliance with State
and local laws, as described in Section 4.12.1.1, Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.12, Public Services
and Recreation, of this Draft EIR, as well as the General Plan policies listed above in impact discussion PS-1,
would ensure that fire protection services are adequate as future development is proposed as a result of
implementation of Land Use Alternative A. Therefore, the cumulative impact on the provision of fire
services would likewise be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Police Protection Services
PS-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in the provision
of or need for new or physically altered police protection facilities, the
construction or operation of which could cause significant environmental
impacts.
Similar to Impact PS-1, future development permitted under this Alternative would result in 5,571
additional residents and up to 5206 new jobs, which would result in an in increase in the number of would
require police protection. Subsequently, the expansion or construction of new or physically altered fire
protection facilities, which could result in significant environmental impacts, could be required. However,
development would occur incrementally throughout the 26-year buildout horizon, therefore, not resulting
in potential impacts to fire protection services in the immediate future or all at one time. Further, under this
Alternative, commercial space and residential development allocation would not be replenished; therefore,
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this Alternative would not result in additional would require service beyond what has currently been
accounted for with respect to potential future commercial and residential development.
However, the West Valley Patrol Division has confir med that future development under the General Plan
would not result in the need for expansion or addition of facilities.34 Moreover, growth proposed under
Land Use Alternative A would occur incrementally over the 26-year horizon of the General Plan.
Additionally, if future expansion of the police station were necessary, the project would be subject to the
provisions of CEQA, which would require that all potentially significant impacts be mitigated to a less-than-
significant level, when feasible.
Further, the Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that while the standard service contract is based upon a set
number of hours for deputies and reserve deputies, buildout under the General Plan throughout the 26-year
horizon under Land Use Alternative A would not substantially result in an increase in the number of
contracted hours as a result of potential increase in would require police protection services.35 Hence, the
same would be true for future development under Alternative A.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate police
protection services are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Health and Safety Element,
Policy 6-22, Neighborhood Awareness Programs, would require the City to continue to support the
Neighborhood Watch Program and others similar programs intended to help neighborhoods prevent crime
through social interaction. Policy 6-24, Crime Prevention in Building Design, would require the City to
consider the relationship between building design and crime prevention in reviewing all developments.
Policy 6-25, Fiscal Impacts, would require the City to recognize fiscal impacts to the County Sheriff and
City of Cupertino when approving various land use mixes. Policy 6-26, Pre-hearing Review, would require
the City to continue to request County Sheriff review and comment on development applications for
security and public safety measures.
Based on confirmation by the Sheriff’s Office, along with compliance with the General Plan policies listed
above, a less-than-significant impact would occur with respect to the need for new or physically altered
police protection facilities.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
34 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Captain Ken Binder, Division Commander, West Valley Patrol,
April 11, 2014.
35 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Captain Ken Binder, Division Commander, West Valley Patrol,
April 11, 2014.
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PS-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to police protection service.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative A within the Cupertino city
boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of
Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments
(ABAG). Cumulative impacts are considered in the context of the growth from development under Land
Use Alternative A within the city, combined with the estimated growth in the service areas of the Santa
Clara County Sheriff’s Department, including the cities of Los Altos Hills, Saratoga, and unincorporated
areas of Santa Clara County. A significant cumulative environmental impact would result if this cumulative
growth would exceed the ability of Sheriff’s Department to adequately serve the vicinity, thereby requiring
construction of new facilities or modification of existing facilities.
Since police protection services in Cupertino are provided through a MOU between the City of Cupertino
and the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, changes and growth anticipated under Land Use Alternative A
would not have any cumulative impact beyond Cupertino’s SOI. Moreover, the Sheriff’s Office has
confirmed that in conjunction with the growth anticipated under Land Use Alternative A and subsequently,
this Alternative, new or physically altered facilities would not be needed.36 Further, it is unlikely that
implementation of the Land Use Alternative A would significantly increase the degree or incidence of need
for mutual aid from neighboring agencies because anticipated growth under the General Plan would occur
incrementally throughout the 26-year buildout horizon. Additionally, compliance with the existing General
Plan policies listed under Impact PS-3 would require the City to recognize fiscal impacts to the County
Sheriff and City of Cupertino when approving various land use mixes and to continue to request County
Sheriff review and comment on development applications for security and public safety measures.
Therefore, implementation of Land Use Alternative A would have a less-than-significant cumulative effect
with respect to police protection services.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
School Services
PS-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in the provision
of or need for new or physically altered school facilities, the construction
or operation of which could cause significant environmental impacts.
This section reviews the need for existing school facilities to accommodate any increases in public school
enrollment due to Land Use Alternative A. However, the California State Legislature, under Senate Bill 50
(SB 50), has determined that payment of school impact fees shall be deemed to provide full and complete
36 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Captain Ken Binder, Division Commander, West Valley Patrol,
April 11, 2014.
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school facilities mitigation. All new developments proposed pursuant to the adoption of Land Use
Alternative A will be required to pay the school impact fees adopted by each school district, and this
requirement is considered to fully mitigate the impacts of the Land Use Alternative A on school facilities.
Cupertino Union School District
The Land Use Alternative A would generate approximately 1,895 housing units in Cupertino; thus the
CUSD would experience additional students in elementary schools and middle school. With student
enrollment already exceeding CUSD’s capacity, the additional students would exacerbate the CUSD’s
capacity. In order to accommodate new students, the CUSD needs to either expand existing facilities or
construct new schools. However, Cupertino does not have sufficient locations for new school facilities to
accommodate the increased enrollment expected. However, the CUSD would receive approximately $9.1
million in development impact fees from Land Use Alternative A, which would mitigate the impacts from
Land Use Alternative A per SB 50. The impact to the CUSD would be less than significant.
Fremont Unified High School District
With the estimated increase new housing units to Cupertino, the FUHSD would experience increase
students by 2040. Although current student enrollment almost equals to its capacity, the additional students
would increase the capacity deficit for the FUHSD. However, the FUHSD has been modernizing its facilities
with additional classroom and cafeterias to continuously address the capacity deficit issue, and additional
development impact fee of $6 million would ameliorate the capacity problem. The impact to the FUHSD
would be less than significant.
Santa Clara Unified School District
With new housing units with Land Use Alternative A, the expected growth in student enrollment for the
SCUSD would increase. Although increase enrollment would add stress to the school in the SCUSD,
development impact fees for Land Use Alternative A would mitigate the impact to the SCUSD facilities;
therefore, the impacts to the SCUSD would be less than significant.
Furthermore, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would preserve and
support Cupertino’s excellent public education system by partnering with local school districts and De Anza
College to improve school facilities and infrastructure. Policy 2-7, Neighborhood Street Planning, would
require the City to develop pedestrian-friendly street environments in each neighborhood that help create
neighborhood identity, improve safety, increase opportunities for social interaction and connections to
shopping, schools, recreation and other destinations. Supporting Strategy 2, Public Facilities, would require
the City to evaluate existing and planned public facilities, such as schools and parks, to improve pedestrian
access. Strategy 2, Public Facilities, would require the City to evaluate existing and planned public facilities,
such as schools and parks, to improve pedestrian access. Policy 2-22, Jobs/Housing Balance, would require
the City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Supporting Strategy 1, Housing and
Mixed-Use, would require the City to strive to achieve a balanced jobs/housing ratio based on the policies
and strategies contained in the Housing Element. Strategy 2, Housing Impact on Local Schools, recognizes
that the quality of Cupertino schools (elementary and high school) is a primary asset of the City and directs
the City to ensure that any new housing pays the statutorily mandated impact fees to mitigate any adverse
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impact to these systems. Policy 2-61, Planning for Schools, would require the City to recognize the
financial impact of increased development on the school districts’ ability to provide staff and facilities. Work
with the districts to assure that the continued excellence of school services can be provided prior to
granting approval for new development. Policy 2-93, School Playing Fields, would require the City to
preserve school playing fields for school and community recreational uses. Strategy 1, School Expansion,
would require the City to encourage schools to meet their expansion needs by building upward instead of
outward into recreation fields. Strategy 2, School Parking Lots, would require the City to encourage
schools to seek alternate parking or transportation solutions, rather than building new parking lots that
infringe on playing fields.
Therefore, with the mandatory payment of developer impact fees pursuant to SB 50 together with
implementation of the General Plan policies and strategies that, once adopted, would support the schools
within Cupertino, impacts to the CUSD, FUHSD and SCUSD would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to schools.
Regional growth resulting from past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects would result in increased
demand for additional school facilities within all three school districts serving the City of Cupertino. Almost
all of the schools in Cupertino experiences capacity deficits, and additional student enrollment would
exacerbate the current capacity issue. Similar to development in Cupertino, the schools are expected to
receive development impact fees from other development outside of Cupertino, which would mitigate the
current and future capacity issues, which would help expand their facilities to accommodate future students.
Therefore, Land Use Alternative A would have a less-than-significant impact on school facilities.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Libraries
PS-7 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in the provision
of or need for new or physically altered library facilities, the construction
or operation of which could cause significant environmental impacts.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A could potentially add approximately 5,571 new residents to
Cupertino by 2040, which would increase the demand for library services and facilities in Cupertino.
Although Land Use Alternative A would result in an increase in employees throughout Cupertino as well,
only residents within Santa Clara County can apply for a library card; therefore, the following analysis
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considers expected population increases, and not employment generation as a result of implementation of
Land Use Alternative A.37 Therefore, expected increases in employees in the city need not be further
considered.
While an overall increase in residents is expected, growth under Land Use Alternative A would occur
incrementally throughout the 26-year horizon; therefore, potential impacts resulting from increased
demand for library services would not occur in the immediate future. It was confirmed that the existing 75
employees, as well as existing library facilities, would be sufficient to accommodate increased demand for
library services, and no expansions would be required.38 Additionally, the General Plan policies listed below
would ensure that the City maintains an adequate level of library services to serve the residents of the city.
Moreover, the Santa Clara County Library Strategic Plan (2008) also aims to ensure adequate library
facilities are provided to sufficiently meet the demands of the City through the identification of goals and
objectives, such as increasing the library’s technology and increasing access to the library’s physical space.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate library services
are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element Policy 2-58,
Library Service Level, would require the City to recognize that if the community desires a higher level of
library service, cooperation between the County of Santa Clara and City of Cupertino in expanding library
services and facilities is required. Policy 2-59, Library Planning, would require the City to integrate and
coordinate any public library facility planning into all applicable General Plan policies, such as
transportation, pedestrian and bike trails. Policy 2-60, Improving Library Service, would require the City to
encourage the library to continue to incorporate new technology to enhance service levels within the library
system. Additionally, under this policy the City is required to encourage the continued evolution of library
collections and services to meet the needs of Cupertino residents of all ages, its richly diverse population
and its local businesses.
The only facility deficiency identified by library staff is a lack of parking; however, communication with
library staff has indicated that there is the potential for an expansion of public meeting space and the parking
lot currently under consideration.39
In summary, the library has adequate capacity to accommodate the growth over the 26-year horizon of Land
Use Alternative A and the expansion of existing library facilities or the construction of new facilities would
not be required; therefore, impacts related to the provision of new or physically altered library facilities
would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
37 Santa Clara County Library District, Santa Clara County Library District website, http://www.sccl.org/about/joining/eligibility,
accessed April 8, 2014.
38 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Derek Wolfgram, Deputy County Librarian for Community
Libraries, April 4, 2014.
39 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Derek Wolfgram, Deputy County Librarian for Community
Libraries, April 4, 2014.
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PS-8 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to libraries.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative A within the Cupertino city
boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of
Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments
(ABAG). Cumulative impacts are considered in the context of the growth from development under Land
Use Alternative A within the city combined with the estimated growth in the service areas of the SCCLD,
which includes all unincorporated portions of Santa Clara County in addition to the incorporated portions
of Campbell, Cupertino, Gilroy, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Milpitas, Monte Sereno, Morgan Hill, and
Saratoga.40 A significant cumulative environmental impact would result if this cumulative growth would
exceed the ability of SCCLD to adequately serve the service area, thereby requiring construction of new
facilities or modification of existing facilities.
Under this Alternative, there would be an increase to population as a result of future development allowed
under Land Use Alternative A; however, the Santa Clara County Library Strategic Plan (2008), described in
more detail in Section 4.12.5.1, Environmental Setting, of Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, of
this Draft EIR, accounts for the entire SCCLD service area and provides a basis for analyzing the most
efficient allocation of funds both for the district as a whole as well as among the different libraries in the
SCCLD service area. This would not only allow for adequate funding to satisfy demand at the Cupertino
library, but also, it would ensure that surrounding libraries are adequate to fulfill demand which in turn
would reduce the demand at the Cupertino library by reducing deficiencies at surrounding facilities. As a
result, implementation of Land Use Alternative A would result in a less-than-significant cumulative
impact associated with libraries.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Parks and Recreation
PS-9 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not increase the use of
existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities,
such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur, or
be accelerated.
The City of Cupertino has an adopted parkland dedication standard of three acres of parkland for every
1,000 residents. Under Land Use Alternative A, the City would retain this standard. As shown in Table
4.12-7, in Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, there is a total of approximately 156 acres of
parkland in Cupertino, or approximately 2.7 acres per 1,000 residents, based on an existing population of
40 Santa Clara Library District, Santa Clara Library District website, http://www.sccl.org/about/joining/eligibility, accessed April 8,
2014.
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58,302. Therefore, the City does not currently meet its adopted standard established under Policy 2-83,
Park Acreage, in the General Plan. The adoption of Land Use Alternative A could bring as many as 5,571
new residents to the city by 2040; therefore, increasing use of existing parkland, which could accelerate the
physical deterioration of existing facilities. In order to comply with the proposed City standard of parkland,
buildout of Land Use Alternative A would be required to provide approximately 16.7 acres.41 Although the
City does not currently meet its adopted standard of providing three acres of parkland per 1,000 residents
future development under Land Use Alternative A, future development under Land Use Alternative A would
be required to meet the proposed standard. Therefore, while the addition of 5,571 new residents would
require up to 16.7 acres of additional parkland, future development under Land Use Alternative A would
comply with Municipal Code regulations. Chapter 14.05, Park Maintenance Fee, would require developers
to pay impact fees to maintain existing parks and recreation facilities and Chapter 18.24, Dedications and
Reservations, would require residential developments to dedicate parklands or pay in-lieu fees to
accommodate and offset their fair share of impacts to parklands. Further, future development would also be
required to comply with applicable General Plan policies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate
neighborhood, regional park, or other recreational facilities are available for the residents of Cupertino.
Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-83, Park Acreage, would require the City to
require the provision of parkland equal to a minimum of three acres for each 1,000 residents. Policy 2-84,
Park Walking Distance, would require the City to ensure that each household is within a half-mile walk of a
neighborhood park, or community park with neighborhood facilities, and that the route is reasonably free of
physical barriers, including streets with heavy traffic. Additionally, under this policy wherever possible, the
City must provide pedestrian links between parks.
Overall, Land Use Alternative A would result in development allocation increases throughout the city that
would increase population, and subsequently the demand to parks and recreation facilities throughout the
city. However, because buildout would occur incrementally throughout the 26-year horizon, and future
development would be subject to comply with the Municipal Code Chapters 14.05 and 18.24, and the
General Plan policies listed above that would ensure that future development provide their fair-share of
parks to help meet the City’s target of three acres per 1,000 residents, impacts would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-10 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not include or require
the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have
an adverse physical effect on the environment.
As discussed above in impact discussion PS-9, the City currently does not meet its adopted standard of
providing three acres of parkland per 1,000 residents, and because Land Use Alternative A at buildout would
add 5,571 residents to the City of Cupertino over the next 26 years, an increase in demand for existing
41 Acreage was calculated by multiplying the projected number of persons by the required acreage percentage. For example, 3 acres of
City park per 1,000 persons is equivalent to .003 and .003 x 5,571 = 16.7.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-145
parklands and recreation facilities would occur. This change in population would increase the need for park
areas, and the provision of such park areas could have adverse physical effects on the environment. Because
future development would be required to comply General Plan Policies 2-74, Heritage Trees, and 2-75,
Public Arts, as described in impact discussion PS-9 above, as well as other regulations described in Section
4.12.5.1, Environmental Setting, future development as a result of implementation of Land Use Alternative
A could require or result in the construction or expansion of recreational facilities that could have an
adverse physical effect on the environment. Similarly, Policies 2-78, Future Use of Blackberry Farm, 2-
78.A, Master Planning Efforts for Parks, and 2-79, Recreational Opportunities for All Users Including
Special Needs, would direct the City to conduct citywide planning for parks and to improve park access for
underserved populations. Together these policies would also contribute to the potential creation of new
parks that could have adverse physical effects. Additionally, Strategy 5, Flexibility in Standards, under Policy
2-82, Open Space and Trail Linkages, could result in the creation of new trails or open space areas in new
developments under Land Use Alternative A, and the creation of such facilities could likewise have adverse
physical effects on the environment.
However, as future parks are proposed, they would be subject to project-level environmental review to
identify potential impacts and mitigation measure to ensure that potential impacts would be reduced to a
less-than-significant level with regards to the future construction or expansion of recreational facilities as a
result of implementation of Land Use Alternative A; therefore, potential impacts would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-11 Implementation of Land Use Alter native A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to parks and recreational
facilities.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative A within the Cupertino city
boundary and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of
Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments
(ABAG). The geographic scope for this discussion includes park and recreation facilities within the city
boundary, as well as Santa Clara County, and the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. As described
above, the City would require subdivision development to fund park improvements and dedicate land
through compliance with Municipal Code Chapter 14.05, Park Maintenance Fee, and Chapter 18.24,
Dedications and Reservations, which would help to ensure the provision of adequate parklands in
compliance with the City standard of providing three acres per 1,000 residents.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would allow for development to occur, which would
cumulatively increase the demand for park and recreational services in the city; however, compliance with
the City’s Municipal Code, along with the policies listed above in impact discussion PS-9, would ensure that
adequate parklands and recreational facilities are provided through in-lieu fees, maintenance fees, or
parkland dedication in order to meet the City standards, which would mitigate potential impacts that future
development would have on park and recreation services in the city.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-146 JUNE 18, 2014
Further, potential future impacts to Santa Clara Parks, as well as the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District, would be mitigated through the contribution of property taxes to ensure facilities at these locations
are adequately maintained and sufficient to accommodate growth associated with implementation of Land
Use Alternative A.
Overall, this Alternative would not contribute to any potential cumulative impacts to park and cumulative
impacts to park and recreational services would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC 5.2.7.13
TRAF-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would conflict with an
applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness
for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all
modes of transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel
and relevant components of the circulation system, including but not
limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and
bicycle paths, and mass transit.
This impact discussion focuses on vehicular transportation. Impacts related to other modes of transportation
are discussed under Impact TRAF-5 below.
Intersection Levels of Service
This section describes the traffic conditions that would result with the addition of the trips generated by the
buildout projections included under Land Use Alternative A on the local roadway network, compared to
traffic conditions with the 2040 No Project scenario. The roadway network is assumed to be the same as
under the 2040 No Project scenario.
The results of the level of service analysis under the Land Use Alternative A scenario compared to the 2040
No Project scenario are presented in Table 5.2-10. The results show that, of the 41 study intersections, 34
intersections would operate at an acceptable level of service under Alternative A, and seven (7) intersections
would operate at an unacceptable level of service during the AM peak hour, the PM peak hour, or both peak
hours.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-147
TABLE 5.2‐10 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A INTERSECTION LEVELS OF SERVICE TABLE
Study
Inter‐
section Intersection
LOS
Standard
Peak
Hour
No Project Land Use Alternative A
Avg.
Delay LOS
Avg.
Delay LOS
Change in
Crit. V/C
Change in
Crit. Delay
1 SR 85 SB Ramps and Stevens
Creek Boulevarda D
AM 29.2 C 29.6 C 0.028 1.4
PM 29.1 C 28.8 C ‐0.005 ‐0.6
2 SR 85 NB Ramps and Stevens
Creek Boulevarda D
AM 51.1 D‐ 51.3 D‐ 0.000 ‐0.4
PM 20.9 C+ 20.5 C+ 0.012 ‐0.1
3 Stelling Road and Stevens
Creek Boulevarda E+
AM 46.2 D 46.1 D ‐0.001 ‐2.1
PM 52.9 D‐ 52.1 D‐ 0.003 ‐0.4
4 Sunnyvale‐Saratoga Road and
Fremont Avenueb E
AM 42.8 D 43.1 D 0.014 0.5
PM 52.5 D‐ 54.0 D‐ 0.014 2.6
5
Sunnyvale‐Saratoga Road/De
Anza Boulevard and
Homestead Roada
D
AM 51.2 D‐ 56.0 E+ 0.039 10.2
PM 66.1 E 83.3 F 0.099 38.5
6 De Anza Boulevard and I‐280
NB Rampa D
AM 46.4 D 53.7 D‐ 0.070 29.5
PM 71.7 E 90.5 F 0.069 30.5
7 De Anza Boulevard and I‐280
SB Rampa D
AM 47.0 D 54.3 D‐ 0.081 30.9
PM 35.3 D+ 42.9 D 0.094 38.2
8 De Anza Boulevard and
Stevens Creek Boulevarda E+
AM 45.8 D 46.0 D 0.007 0.5
PM 76.2 E‐ 78.7 E‐ 0.025 9.5
9 De Anza Boulevard and
McClellan Road/Pacifica Drive D
AM 33.0 C‐ 32.8 C‐ 0.006 ‐0.4
PM 70.7 E 70.2 E 0.002 ‐0.1
10 De Anza Boulevard and
Bollinger Roada E+
AM 44.0 D 44.9 D 0.012 1.3
PM 25.1 C 25.2 C 0.007 0.3
11 De Anza Boulevard and SR 85
NB Rampa D
AM 32.9 C‐ 32.8 C‐ ‐0.001 ‐0.1
PM 16.4 B 16.9 B 0.016 0.9
12 De Anza Boulevard and SR 85
SB Rampa D
AM 23.9 C 24.1 C 0.014 0.4
PM 22.2 C+ 22.3 C+ 0.015 0.4
13 Blaney Avenue and
Homestead Road D
AM 34.9 C‐ 34.6 C‐ ‐0.002 ‐0.4
PM 16.4 B 14.0 B ‐0.035 ‐2.3
14 Wolfe Roadand El Camino
Real (SR 82)b E
AM 47.6 D 47.6 D 0.000 0.0
PM 51.8 D‐ 51.8 D‐ 0.001 0.0
15 Wolfe Road and Fremont
Avenuec E
AM 45.8 D 46.1 D 0.005 0.2
PM 51.8 D‐ 53.0 D‐ 0.010 1.0
16 Wolfe Road and Homestead
Road D
AM 36.3 D+ 36.5 D+ 0.004 0.3
PM 51.9 D‐ 53.3 D‐ 0.009 2.2
17 Wolfe Road and Pruneridge
Avenue D
AM 17.0 B 14.7 B ‐0.020 ‐2.5
PM 26.9 C 28.4 C 0.004 2.3
18 Wolfe Road and I‐280 NB D AM 88.3 F 94.9 F 0.021 9.2
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-148 JUNE 18, 2014
TABLE 5.2‐10 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A INTERSECTION LEVELS OF SERVICE TABLE
Study
Inter‐
section Intersection
LOS
Standard
Peak
Hour
No Project Land Use Alternative A
Avg.
Delay LOS
Avg.
Delay LOS
Change in
Crit. V/C
Change in
Crit. Delay
Rampa
PM 36.5 D+ 36.8 D+ ‐0.003 ‐1.4
19 Wolfe Road and I‐280 SB
Rampa D
AM 38.9 D+ 42.6 D 0.018 6.4
PM 24.7 C 22.3 C+ ‐0.018 ‐4.5
20 Wolfe Road and Vallco Pkwy D
AM 26.4 C 26.4 C 0.005 0.2
PM 51.2 D‐ 50.1 D ‐0.006 ‐2.2
21 Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue
and Stevens Creek Boulevarda D
AM 46.5 D 46.1 D ‐0.002 ‐0.4
PM 72.2 E 65.6 E ‐0.039 ‐11.7
22 Miller Avenue and Bollinger
Road g D
AM 42.0 D 42.1 D 0.006 0.4
PM 44.2 D 46.3 D 0.020 3.5
23 Finch Avenue and Stevens
Creek Boulevard D
AM 26.6 C 25.4 C 0.003 ‐1.0
PM 41.8 D 38.6 D+ ‐0.055 ‐4.3
24 North Tantau Avenue/Quail
Avenue and Homestead Road D
AM 49.6 D 50.6 D 0.006 0.9
PM 43.6 D 44.5 D 0.015 1.7
25 North Tantau Avenue and
Pruneridge Avenue D
AM 29.2 C 29.2 C 0.012 0.6
PM 16.6 B 16.6 B ‐0.004 ‐0.2
26 North Tantau Avenue and
Vallco Pkwy D
AM 29.2 C 29.2 C 0.008 0.0
PM 34.6 C‐ 34.7 C‐ 0.004 0.3
27 Tantau Avenue and Stevens
Creek Boulevard D
AM 47.4 D 48.5 D 0.017 1.5
PM 56.8 E+ 57.0 E+ 0.003 0.5
28 Lawrence Expressway and
Homestead Roadd E
AM 59.0 E+ 59.5 E+ 0.003 0.9
PM 58.0 E+ 59.0 E+ 0.004 1.4
29 I‐280 SB Ramp and Stevens
Creek Boulevarde E
AM 34.8 C‐ 35.0 C‐ 0.002 0.2
PM 84.9 F 84.9 F ‐0.002 ‐0.5
30 Agilent Tech Driveway and
Stevens Creek Boulevardf D
AM 52.9 D‐ 54.1 D‐ 0.003 1.4
PM 29.8 C 29.5 C ‐0.007 ‐0.4
31
Lawrence Expressway SB
Ramp and Stevens Creek
Boulevardd
E
AM 72.8 E 74.9 E 0.006 2.8
PM 29.9 C 29.8 C ‐0.006 ‐0.2
32
Lawrence Expressway NB
Ramp and Stevens Creek
Boulevardd
E
AM 53.9 D‐ 53.2 D‐ ‐0.004 ‐0.8
PM 30.1 C 30.1 C ‐0.005 ‐0.1
33 Lawrence Expressway and
Calvert Drive/I‐280 SB Rampd E
AM 48.6 D 49.0 D 0.001 0.4
PM 50.6 D 51.2 D‐ 0.003 0.9
34
Lawrence Expressway and
Bollinger Road/Moorpark
Avenued
E
AM 60.5 E 60.7 E 0.001 0.3
PM 46.0 D 45.9 D ‐0.001 0.0
35 De Anza Boulevard and
Rainbow Drive (south) D
AM 20.2 C+ 19.6 B‐ 0.006 ‐0.6
PM 19.2 B‐ 18.3 B‐ ‐0.003 ‐1.0
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-149
TABLE 5.2‐10 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A INTERSECTION LEVELS OF SERVICE TABLE
Study
Inter‐
section Intersection
LOS
Standard
Peak
Hour
No Project Land Use Alternative A
Avg.
Delay LOS
Avg.
Delay LOS
Change in
Crit. V/C
Change in
Crit. Delay
36
Bubb Road/Peninsula
Boulevard and Stevens Creek
Boulevard
D
AM 31.0 C 30.3 C 0.002 ‐0.5
PM 31.1 C 31.0 C ‐0.017 ‐0.3
37
North Stelling
Road/Hollenbeck Avenue and
Homestead Road
D
AM 38.5 D+ 38.1 D+ ‐0.009 ‐0.3
PM 43.6 D 42.2 D ‐0.047 ‐3.2
38 Blaney Avenue and Stevens
Creek Boulevard D
AM 34.1 C‐ 32.9 C‐ ‐0.018 ‐1.5
PM 40.0 D 34.9 C‐ ‐0.049 ‐4.8
39 Foothill Boulevard and
Stevens Creek Boulevard D
AM 48.7 D 40.2 D ‐0.093 ‐11.6
PM 25.2 C 25.2 C ‐0.003 0.0
40 Stelling Road and McClellan
Road D
AM 32.1 C‐ 31.7 C ‐0.024 ‐0.9
PM 35.6 D+ 34.5 C‐ ‐0.025 ‐2.2
41 Wolfe Road and Apple
Campus Access h D
AM 18.9 B‐ 19.5 B‐ 0.014 1.1
PM 36.8 D+ 37.8 D+ 0.016 1.6
Notes: Notes: NB = northbound; SB = southbound; EB = eastbound; WB = westbound. Bold and underlined indicates a substandard level of service
Bold, underlined, and shaded in gray indicates a significant project impact
a. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Cupertino. Cupertino applies its own standard of LOS D to CMP intersections.
b. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Sunnyvale. The CMP’s standard of LOS E applies.
c. The City of Sunnyvale is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
d. This is a CMP Intersection on a County Expressway. The CMP and County’s standard of LOS E applies.
e. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Santa Clara. The CMP’s standard of LOS applies.
f. The City of Santa Clara is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
g. The City of San Jose is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
h. This is a future intersection.
As shown in Table 5.2-10, all of the seven (7) intersections that would operate at an unacceptable level of
service for at least one peak hour under Alternative A were also predicted to operate at an unacceptable
level of service under the No Project scenario. The intersections that would operate at an unacceptable level
of service are bolded and underlined in the table. All other study intersections would continue to operate at
acceptable levels of service under the Land Use Alternative A conditions. The level-of-service calculation
sheets are included in Appendix G, Transportation and Traffic Data, of this Draft EIR.
Based on applying the significance criteria for traffic impacts discussed in Section 4.13.5, Thresholds of
Significance, in Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR, there would be a significant
impact at four (4) of the study intersections under Land Use Alternative A during one or both peak hours, as
highlighted in Table 5.2-10.
As shown in Table 5.2-10, the following three intersections would operate at an unacceptable level under
both No Project and Land Use Alternative A conditions, but Land Use Alternative A would not have a
significant impact on their operations:
De Anza Boulevard and McClellan Road/Pacifica Drive (#9): LOS E – PM Peak Hour
Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#21): LOS E – PM Peak Hour
Stevens Creek Boulevard and I-280 SB Ramps/Calvert Drive (#29): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-150 JUNE 18, 2014
As shown in Table 5.2-10, Land Use Alternative A would result in significant impacts during at least one of
the peak hours. The following four (4) intersections would experience a significant impact under Land Use
Alternative A traffic conditions:
Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5): LOS E+ and E – AM and PM
Peak Hours, respectively
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): LOS F – AM Peak Hour
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Measure TRAF-1: The City of Cupertino shall commit to preparing and implementing a
Traffic Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that
are necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards. As part
of the preparation of the Traffic Mitigation Fee Program, the City shall also commit to preparing a
"nexus" study that will serve as the basis for requiring development impact fees under AB 1600
legislation, as codified by California Code Government Section 66000 et seq., to support
implementation of the proposed Project. The established procedures under AB 1600 require that a
"reasonable relationship" or nexus exist between the traffic improvements and facilities required to
mitigate the traffic impacts of new development pursuant to the proposed Project. The following
examples of traffic improvements and facilities would reduce impacts to acceptable level of service
standards and these, among other improvements, could be included in the development impact fees
nexus study:
Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5): Widen De
Anza Boulevard to four lanes in each direction or the installation of triple left-turn lanes.
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6): Restriping of De Anza Boulevard in
the southbound direction to provide room for right turn vehicles to be separated from through
traffic may be required. The bike lane would be maintained, and right turns would occur from the
bike lane. The right turns would continue to be controlled by the signal and would need to yield to
pedestrians. Painting a bike box at the front of the lane to provide space for bikes wait at red lights
may enhance the bicycle experience.
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): Restripe westbound Stevens Creek
Boulevard to provide room for right turn vehicles to be separated from through vehicles may be
required. The right turn vehicles will share the bike lane and will still be controlled by the traffic
signal. Paint a bike box at the front of the lane to provide bikes a place to wait at red lights. The
pedestrian crossings will not be affected may enhance the bicycling experience.
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): An additional northbound through lane for
a total of three through-movement lanes may be required. This will require widening the Wolfe
Road overcrossing. The lane needs to be extended north of the interchange so that there are a
continuous three lanes northbound. Right-of-way acquisition may be required. In addition to
widening the overcrossing, the City may wish to pursue a redesign of the interchange to go from a
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-151
partial cloverleaf design to a diamond design. This could help with heavy volumes in the right lane,
which contributes to the level-of-service deficiency.
The fees shall be assessed when there is new construction, an increase in square footage in an existing
building, or the conversion of existing square footage to a more intensive use. The fees collected shall be
applied toward circulation improvements and right-of-way acquisition. The fees shall be calculated by
multiplying the proposed square footage, dwelling unit, or hotel room by the appropriate rate. Traffic
mitigation fees shall be included with any other applicable fees payable at the time the building permit is
issued. The City shall use the traffic mitigation fees to fund construction (or to recoup fees advanced to
fund construction) of the transportation improvements identified above, among other things that at the
time of potential future development may be warranted to mitigate traffic impacts.
While implementation of Mitigation Measure TRAF-1 would secure a funding mechanism for future
roadway and infrastructure improvements that are necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based
on then current standards, impacts would remain significant and unavoidable, because the City cannot
guarantee improvements at these intersections at this time. This is in part because the nexus study has yet to
be prepared and because some of the impacted intersections are under the jurisdictions of the Cities of
Sunnyvale and Santa Clara and Caltrans. Specifically, the following intersections are outside the jurisdiction
of Cupertino:
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6)
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18)
However, the City of Cupertino will continue to cooperate with these jurisdictions to identify
improvements that would reduce or minimize the impacts to intersections and roadways as a result of
implementation of future development projects in Cupertino.
Significance with Mitigation: Significant and Unavoidable.
Roadway Segments Average Daily Traffic Volumes
In order to better characterize conditions on Cupertino’s arterials and major collectors, 33 roadway
segments were selected for evaluation under 2040 conditions. Figure 4.13-1 in Section 4.13.1, Study
Intersections and Roadway Segments, of Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR, showed
each roadway segment number, and Figure 4.13-6 in Section 4.13.4, Existing Conditions and
Environmental Setting, graphically illustrated the existing traffic volumes on these roadway segments,
rounded to the nearest thousand. Table 5.2-11 presents the existing 24-hour traffic volume data (Average
Daily Traffic, or ADT) for each roadway segment, as well as ADT under No Project conditions, and under
Land Use Alternative A conditions.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-152 JUNE 18, 2014
TABLE 5.2‐11 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC ON SELECTED ROADWAY SEGMENTS UNDER LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
Segment # Location
Existing
ADT
2040 Forecast Volume
No
Project
Land Use
Alternative A
1 Foothill Blvd north of Stevens Creek Blvd 20,878 24,183 24,264
2 Stevens Creek Blvd east of Crescent Rd 29,371 34,689 34,447
3 Bubb Rd south of Stevens Creek Blvd 13,339 16,436 16,834
4 Stevens Creek Blvd west of Stelling Rd 30,587 30,404 30,848
5 Stelling Rd south of Stevens Creek Blvd 14,710 29,485 30,050
6 Stelling Rd north of Stevens Creek Blvd 17,493 23,644 24,309
7 Stevens Creek Blvd east of Stelling Rd 28,730 39,569 40,978
8 Homestead Rd east of Ontario Dr 18,357 20,246 25,050
9 De Anza Blvd south of Bollinger Rd 36,756 46,073 46,265
10 De Anza Blvd south of Stevens Creek Blvd 43,216 52,030 51,614
11 De Anza Blvd north of Stevens Creek Blvd 42,455 53,221 51,930
12 De Anza Blvd south of Homestead Rd 52,676 53,666 53,927
13 Sunnyvale‐Saratoga Rd north of Homestead Rd 42,246 47,833 46,686
14 Bollinger Rd east of De Anza Blvd 15,877 20,202 20,220
15 Stevens Creek Blvd east of De Anza Blvd 30,779 41,803 41,124
16 Homestead Rd east of De Anza Blvd 24,876 35,070 36,719
17 Blaney Ave north of Stevens Creek Blvd 6,294 8,677 8,453
18 Stevens Creek Blvd east of Blaney Ave 30,348 42,549 42,128
19 Homestead Rd east of Blaney Ave 22,895 32,807 34,109
20 Miller Ave south of Stevens Creek Blvd 17,379 26,621 24,705
21 Wolfe Rd north of Vallco Pkwy 34,200 45,606 45,176
22 Wolfe Rd south of Homestead Rd 31,751 41,655 43,188
23 Wolfe Rd north of Homestead Rd 18,825 31,744 32,469
24 Vallco Parkway east of Wolfe Rd 2,917 3,947 3,932
25 Homestead Rd east of Wolfe Rd 10,481 21,456 21,927
26 Tantau Ave north of Vallco Pkwy 6,839 9,708 9,692
27 Stevens Creek Blvd east of Tantau Ave 27,515 32,208 32,976
28 Bollinger Rd east of Johnson Ave 11,164 23,374 23,417
29 Lawrence Expy north of Bollinger Rd 23,577 42,606 45,623
30 Lawrence Expy south of Pruneridge Ave 69,249 87,142 88,571
31 Stevens Creek Blvd west of Tantau Ave 25,476 34,543 35,542
32 Wolfe Rd south of I‐280 NB Ramps (over 280) 36,190 44,547 44,345
33 Homestead Rd west of Stelling Rd 16,990 22,541 23,524
Source: Tube counts conducted on Wed, Sept. 18, 2013. Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Inc.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-153
Cupertino does not have level of service analysis methodologies, standards, or thresholds of significance for
roadway segments. Therefore, the ADT projections for the future scenarios are presented for informational
purposes. Any project impacts to traffic operations are fully captured by the intersection analysis.
Freeway Levels of Service
Ten (10) freeway segments were selected for analysis under 2040 conditions. As described in Section 4.13.5,
Thresholds of Significance, of Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR, the addition of
traffic causes a traffic impact on a CMP freeway segment when:
The level of service of the freeway segment is LOS F under existing conditions, and
The number of new trips added by the project is more than one percent of the freeway capacity.
Table 5.2-12 presents the daily capacity of both the mixed-flow lanes and the High Occupancy Vehicle
(HOV) lanes on each of the study freeway segments. Since daily LOS is not available for freeway segments,
the lowest of the two peak-hour LOS levels, as reported in VTA’s 2012 CMP Monitoring Study, is also
shown.
Table 5.2-12 shows the number of additional trips that would be generated under the proposed Land Use
Alternative A conditions in comparison with the number of trips projected under the 2040 No Alternative
conditions in both the mixed-flow lanes and the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane on each of the study
freeway segments. Table 5.2-12 also indicates the percentage of capacity that the projected number of
additional trips represents. If there is a percentage increase greater than one (1) percent and the existing
LOS is shown as F, then there would be a significant impact. None of the HOV lane segments would be
significantly impacted under this Alternative; however, the following two mixed-lane freeway segments
would be result in a significant impact:
SR 85 Southbound between I-280 and Stevens Creek Boulevard
I-280 Westbound between Saratoga Avenue and Lawrence Expressway
Mitigation Measures
Even with implementation of Mitigation Measure TRAF-1, which includes preparing and implementing a
Traffic Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that are
necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards, the impacts
would be significant and unavoidable.
Significance Without Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
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Existing LOSa Project Trips % CapacityImpact?
SR
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Sa
r
a
t
o
g
a
Av
e
to
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
NB
2
44
,
0
0
0
E
28
3
0.
6
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
E 9 0.1% No
SR
85
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
to
St
e
v
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n
s
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e
k
Bl
v
d
NB
2
44
,
0
0
0
F
11
6
0.
3
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
E 14 0.1% No
SR
85
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bl
v
d
to
I‐28
0
NB
2
44
,
0
0
0
C
31
3
0.
7
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 30 0.2% No
SR
85
I‐28
0
to
W.
Ho
m
e
s
t
e
a
d
Rd
NB
2
44
,
0
0
0
F ‐
10
6
‐
0.
2
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
F 56 0.3% No
SR
85
W.
Ho
m
e
s
t
e
a
d
Rd
to
I‐28
0
SB
2
44
,
0
0
0
C ‐
1,
6
8
4
‐
3.
8
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
A ‐14 ‐0.1% No
SR
85
I‐28
0
to
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bl
v
d
SB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
1,
0
5
1
1.
5
%
Ye
s
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 5 0.0% No
SR
85
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bl
v
d
to
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
SB
2
44
,
0
0
0
F ‐
38
6
‐
0.
9
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D ‐97 ‐0.6% No
SR
85
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
to
Sa
r
a
t
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g
a
Av
e
SB
2
44
,
0
0
0
F ‐
41
1
‐
0.
9
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
C ‐102 ‐0.6% No
I‐28
0
Ma
g
d
a
l
e
n
a
Av
e
to
Fo
o
t
h
i
l
l
Ex
p
w
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EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
D ‐
79
4
‐
1.
2
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
A 26 0.2% No
I‐28
0
Fo
o
t
h
i
l
l
Ex
p
w
y
to
SR
85
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
D
14
0.
0
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
C 39 0.2% No
I‐28
0
SR
85
to
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
E
27
7
0.
4
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
C ‐12 ‐0.1% No
I‐28
0
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
to
Wo
l
f
e
Rd
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
E
62
4
0.
9
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 60 0.4% No
I‐28
0
Wo
l
f
e
Rd
to
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
w
y
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
D
25
0
0.
4
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
C 68 0.4% No
I‐28
0
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
w
y
to
Sa
r
a
t
o
g
a
Av
e
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
28
4
0.
4
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 34 0.2% No
I‐28
0
Sa
r
a
t
o
g
a
Av
e
to
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
w
y
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
77
8
1.
1
%
Ye
s
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
E 2 0.0% No
I‐28
0
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
w
y
to
Wo
l
f
e
Rd
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F ‐
71
2
‐
1.
0
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
E 13 0.1% No
I‐28
0
Wo
l
f
e
Rd
to
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
29
7
0.
4
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
F 22 0.1% No
I‐28
0
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
to
SR
85
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
48
0.
1
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
F ‐39 ‐0.2% No
I‐28
0
SR
85
to
Fo
o
t
h
i
l
l
Ex
p
w
y
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F ‐
1,
0
2
8
‐
1.
5
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
F ‐196 ‐1.2% No
I‐28
0
Fo
o
t
h
i
l
l
Ex
p
w
y
to
Ma
g
d
a
l
e
n
a
Av
e
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
D
98
0.
1
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 13 0.1% No
No
t
e
:
Bo
l
d
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,
20
1
2
.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-155
Vehicle Miles Traveled with Land Use Alternative A
As described above under Section 4.13.2.1, Regulatory Setting, of Chapter 4.13, Traffic and Transportation,
the VTA countywide travel demand model is used to help evaluate cumulative transportation impacts of
local land use decisions on the CMP system. Therefore, the daily (24-hour) VMT were tabulated with Land
Use Alternative A using the Santa Clara VTA countywide travel demand model with refined land use
estimates for the City of Cupertino. The VMT estimates in the VTA model are sensitive to changes in land
use. Generally, land uses that reflect a more balanced jobs-housing ratio in the VTA model result in lower
per capita VMT.
The total daily VMT and the VMT per capita are presented in Table 5.2-13. As shown in the table, VMT per
capita is forecast to increase to 11 miles per service population per day in 2040 with this Alternative,
compared to 10.5 miles per service population per day in 2013 under existing conditions. As discussed in
the Air Quality discussion above, daily VMT in the Project Study Area would increase at a greater rate (18.5
percent) between 2013 and 2040 than would the service population of the Project Study Area (12.6
percent). A slight increase such as this could be indicative of increased development of both households and
jobs, with potentially higher rates of increases in jobs (than households) in a relatively jobs-rich area,
providing opportunities for increases in average trip lengths.
TABLE 5.2‐13 VMT PER CAPITA
2000‐2020 General Plan Land Use Alternative A
Daily VMT 997,145 1,063,199
Household Units 23,294 23,294
Total Population 63,873 63,873
Total Jobs 30,848 32,593
VMT Per Capita 10.5 11.0
Source: Association of Bay Area Government (ABAG) Projections 2013; Hexagon Transportation Consultants.
2014.
The VMT by trip orientation is presented in Table 5.2-14. As shown in the table for Land Use Alternative A,
much of the VMT is oriented to internal-external trip making. However, there is not an overwhelming
imbalance of internal-external trip making over external-internal trip making for Land Use Alternative A
compared to the current General Plan or compared to the Project.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-156 JUNE 18, 2014
TABLE 5.2‐14 VMT BY TRIP ORIENTATION
Trip Orientation
2000‐2020
General Plan
2000‐2020 General Plan
VMT Proportions
Land Use
Alternative A
Project VMT
Proportions
Total Cupertino VMTa 997,145 100% 1,063,199 100%
Internal‐External VMTb 540,670 54% 567,863 53%
External‐Internal VMTc 413,479 42% 446,573 42%
Internal‐External VMTd 997,145 100% 1,063,199 100%
Notes: Estimate of 2030 VMT is based on the current Comprehensive Plan and on preliminary land use projections.
a. Trips with one trip end outside Cupertino were counted as one trip‐end, whereas trips with both ends in Cupertino were counted as two trip‐
ends.
b. “Internal‐External” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base in Cupertino and a work or non‐work destination
outside Cupertino.
c. “External‐Internal” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base outside Cupertino and a work or non‐work destination
in Cupertino
d. “Internal‐Internal” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base in Cupertino and a work or non‐work destination in
Cupertino.
Source: Hexagon Transportation Consultants. 2014.
As discussed in Section 4.13.2.1, Regulatory Setting, of Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, SB 743
requires impacts to transportation network performance to be viewed through a filter that promotes the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the development of multimodal transportation networks, and a
diversity of land uses. Some alternative metrics were identified in SB 743 including VMT, which can help
identify how projects (land development and infrastructure) influence accessibility (i.e. access to places and
people) and even emissions, but they do not provide information about how the transportation network
performs or functions with respect to efficiency or user experience. Accessibility is an important planning
objective in many communities, including Cupertino, but so is travel time or delay experienced by users. SB
743 does not prevent a city or county from continuing to analyze delay or LOS as part of other plans (i.e.
the general plan), studies, or on-going network monitoring, but once the new CEQA Guidelines are
implemented, which is estimated to be following the certification and adoption by the Secretary for
Resources of the final draft of changes to CEQA Guidelines by OPR on July 1, 2014, these metrics may no
longer constitute the sole basis for CEQA impacts.
While Cupertino does not currently have VMT analysis methodologies, standards, or thresholds of
significance, this analysis has been provided for informational purposes only. However, because future
growth under the proposed Project would come incrementally over approximately 26 years and would be
guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of the principal goals and objectives
established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area, this additional growth would be consistent with
the regional planning objectives established for the Bay Area, which concentrates new development within
infill sites and within PDAs.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-157
TRAF-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would conflict with an
applicable congestion management program, including, but not limited to
level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other standards
established by the county congestion management agency for designated
roads or highways.
CMP Impacts
Of the 41 study intersections included in this EIR document, 21 are included in Santa Clara County’s
Congestion Management Program (CMP). Impact TRAF-1, which presents the results of the impact
analysis under 2040 No Project Conditions and the Land Use Alternative A on all of the study intersections,
includes the 21 CMP intersections. Land Use Alternative A resulted in significant impacts to five (5) CMP
intersections. The following four CMP intersections experienced a significant impact during at least one of
the peak hours:
Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5): LOS E+ – AM and PM peak
hours
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramps (#6): LOS F – PM peak hour
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): LOS E – PM peak hour
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): LOS F – AM peak hour
Of the above four intersections, two of them would fall below VTA’s CMP standard, which is LOS E. The
two CMP intersections that are within Cupertino’s jurisdiction and would operate at LOS E (Saratoga-
Sunnyvale Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road [#5] and De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek
Boulevard [#8]) do not actually fall below the CMP standard, but only below the City of Cupertino’s
standard of LOS D.
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation for these impacts is described above in the Impact TRAF-1, and as discussed, even with
implementation of Mitigation Measures TRAF-1, which includes preparing and implementing a Traffic
Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that are
necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards, the impacts to
these CMP intersections would be significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
TRAF-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not substantially increase
hazards due to a design feature (e.g. sharp curves or dangerous
intersection) or incompatible uses (e.g. farm equipment).
Since Land Use Alternative A represents a program-level planning effort, it does not directly address
project-level design features or building specifications; however, the General Plan includes policies and
strategies that, once adopted, would reduce potential hazards due to roadway design or incompatible uses.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-158 JUNE 18, 2014
Policy 4-10, Roadway Plans that Complement the Needs of Adjacent Land Use, would require that roadway
plans complement the needs of adjacent land uses; under this policy, the City would be required to adopt
road improvement standards for rural, semi-rural, urban, and suburban roads. Policy 4-10 would require
the City to survey intersections to ensure their operation is efficient and promotes the safety of pedestrians
and bicyclists. Policy 6-13, Roadway Design, would require the City to involve the Fire Department in the
design of public roadways. Policy 6-16, Hillside Road Upgrades, would “require new hillside development
to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire Code and City standards.” Policy 4-11, Curb Cuts, would
direct developments to minimize the number of resulting curb cuts, thereby reducing potential for vehicle
conflicts. Policy 4-12, Street Improvement Planning, would require streetscape planning to be “an integral
part of a project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles,” and
Policy 4-13, Safe Parking Lots, would “require parking lots that are safe for pedestrians.” Policy 6-56, Road
Improvements to Reduce Truck Impacts, directs the City to consider road improvements to reduce the
impact from trucks. Finally, Strategy 3, Community Protection, of Policy 4-16, Transportation Noise,
Fumes and Hazards, would require protecting the community from the effects of the transportation system,
by enforcing laws related to dangerous and abusive driving, among other requirements.
Future development under the Land Use Alternative A would increase in both residential and commercial
land uses. As these land uses develop, construction and modifications of new and existing roadways would be
necessary to support the growth. As with current practice, the improvements would be designed and
reviewed in accordance to the City of Cupertino Standard Details, which are promulgated and administered
by the City Engineering Department. Additionally, incompatible uses would be discouraged by the General
Plan. Therefore, the impact of Land Use Alternative A would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not result in inadequate
emergency access.
Because Land Use Alternative A is a program-level planning effort, it does not directly address project-level
design features or building specifications; however, the General Plan includes policies that, once adopted,
would ensure efficient circulation and adequate access are provided in the city, which would help facilitate
emergency response. Policy 6-8, Early Project Review, directs the City to “involve the Fire Department in
early design stages of projects requiring public review.” Policy 6-9, Commercial and Industrial Fire
Protection Guidelines, would require the City to coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new
guidelines for fire protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-10, Fire Prevention and
Emergency Preparedness, would require the City to promote fire prevention and emergency preparedness
through city-initiated public education programs, through the government television channel, the Internet
and the Cupertino Scene. Policy 6-13, Roadway Design, would require the City to involve the Fire
Department in the design of public roadways and directs the City to ensure that frequent median breaks are
used to provide “timely access.” Additionally, Policy 6-14, Dead-End Street Access, allows the use of private
roadways during emergency responses in hillside subdivisions where dead-end streets impair access. Policy
6-15, Hillside Access Routes, directs the city to require new hillside development to have frequent grade
breaks in access routes to ensure a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-16, Hillside Road
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-159
Upgrades, directs the city to require new hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire
Code and City standards. Finally, Policy 6-17, Private Residential Electronic Security Gates, discourages the
use of private residential electronic security gates to help ensure timely emergency access to these areas.
Any new streets or developments that would result from implementation of Land Use Alternative A would
be subject to City engineering standards and the General Plan policies described above.
Ongoing implementation of the General Plan policies and the City’s engineering standards would ensure
that adequate emergency access is provided in Cupertino. Therefore, impacts associated with the
implementation of Land Use Alternative A would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not conflict with adopted
policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian
facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities.
Both the Valley Transportation Plan 2040, enacted by the Valley Transportation Authority, and Plan Bay Area:
Strategies for a Sustainable Region, the 2040 Regional Transportation Plan enacted by the MTC in 2013,
contain strategies designed to support alternative modes of transportation, including walking, bicycling, and
public transit. Additionally, the City of Cupertino’s Pedestrian Transportation Guidelines and Cupertino
Bicycle Transportation Plan identify and prioritize improvements to enhance the pedestrian and bicycle
environment.
Additionally, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate
public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities are available to the residents of Cupertino. Within the Land
Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-26, Heart of the City Special Area, and supporting strategies,
require the City to create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of mixed-use
development; enhanced activity gateways and nodes; and safe and efficient circulation and access for all
modes of transportation. Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-3, Reduced Reliance on the Use of
Single-Occupant Vehicles, would require the City to promote the use of alternative forms of transportation
instead of single-occupancy vehicles (SOVs) by encouraging attractive alternatives. Supportive strategies
under this policy encourage new developments to include facilities supportive of walking, biking, and transit
use, as well as providing street space for bus turnouts, bike lanes, or other alternative transportation
infrastructure. Policy 4-4, Improve Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Throughout Cupertino, expressly
directs the City to expand city-wide pedestrian and bicycle circulation in order to provide improved
recreation, mobility and safety. Policy 4-5, Pedestrian Access, would require the City to create pedestrian
access between new subdivisions and school sites, and to review existing neighborhood circulation plans to
improve safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists to school sites, including completing accessible
network of sidewalks and paths. Policy 4-6, Regional Trail Development, would require the City to continue
to plan and provide for a comprehensive system of trails and pathways consistent with regional systems,
including the Bay Trail, Stevens Creek Corridor and Ridge Trail, and with the policies contained in the Land
Use and Community Design Element. The General Alignment of the Bay Trail, as shown in the Association
of Bay Area Governments’ Bay Trail planning document, is incorporated in the General Plan by reference.
Policy 4-7, Increased Use of Public Transit, would require the City to support and encourage the increased
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-160 JUNE 18, 2014
use of public transit. Policy 4-9, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs, would require the City to balance the
needs of pedestrians with desired traffic service, and, where necessary and appropriate, allow a lowered
LOS standard to better accommodate pedestrians on major streets and at specific intersections. Policy 4-12,
Street Improvement Planning, would require the City to plan street improvements such as curb cuts,
sidewalks, bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash containers as an integral part of a
project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles with the least
possible disruption to the streetscape. Policy 4-13, Safe Parking Lots, directs the City to require parking lots
that are safe for pedestrians. Policy 4-15, School Traffic Impacts on Neighborhoods, would require the City
to minimize the impact of school drop-off, pick-up and parking on neighborhoods.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would therefore support and would not conflict with plans,
programs and policies regarding bicycle or pedestrian facilities, or decrease the performance and safety of
such facilities. Therefore, related impacts from implementation of Land Use Alternative A would be less
than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in additional
cumulatively considerable impacts.
The analysis of this Alternative, above, addresses cumulative impacts to the transportation network in the
city and its surroundings; accordingly, cumulative impacts would be the same as Land Use Alternative A’s
impacts, which is significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
UTILITIES 5.2.7.14
UTIL-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would have sufficient water
supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and
resources, or new or expanded entitlements are needed.
The Project Study Area is within the water utility service area of California Water Service Company (Cal
Water) and San Jose Water Company (SJWC). As discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems,
the City undertook a Water Supply Evaluation (WSE) in May 2014 to assess the adequacy of the water
supply for the proposed Project. (The WSE is included as Appendix H, Utilities and Service Systems Data,
of this Draft EIR.)
Land Use Alternative A is within the water utility service area of Cal Water and SJWC. Table 5.2-15 shows
the development at buildout (2040) for Land Use Alternative A by water utility service area. The following
discussion describes the impacts of Land Use Alternative A by Cal Water and SJWC service area.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-161
TABLE 5.2‐15 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT IN CAL WATER AND SJWC SERVICE AREAS
Land Use Alternative A Cal Water
SJWC
(+ Cupertino Water) Total
Residential 1,273 units 622 units 1,895 units
Office 945,000 sf 95,231 sf 1,040,231 sf
Commercial 630,000 sf 71,413 sf 701,413 sf
Hotel 600 rooms – 600 rooms
Notes: sf = square feet.
Source: Table 2 of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 15, 2014; prepared with input from the City of Cupertino.
Cal Water
The 2010 Cal Water LAS District UWMP did not account for the 18.9 percent population increase between
2000 and 2010 based on US Census data, therefore, the Cal Water LAS District demand was revised in the
WSE due to an increase in population projected for the next 26 years. However, stronger water
conservation targets were used in the WSE than were used in the 2010 UWMP in terms of average water
usage per capita are projected - 159 gpcd for 2020 rather than 193 gpcd as indicated in the 2010 UWMP.
This is due to Cal Water data showing that per capital water usage has declined in the past five years. For the
period from 2009 to 2013, it averaged 136 gpcd. Even using conservative assumptions results in the 2040
projected LAS District total demand of 15,302 acre feet per year (afy) compared to the 2008 actual 15,490
afy.
For Land Use Alternative A, it is assumed that projected water demand would be added to the LAS District
and Apple Campus 2 demands. Also, it is assumed that development would occur at a relatively constant rate
over Land Use Alternative A’s 26-year horizon period. The WSE includes detailed calculations of water
demand from Land Use Alternative A, based on the land uses shown in Table 5.2-13. The WSE determined
the water demand at buildout (2040) for Land Use Alternative A in the Cal Water LAS District would be
807 afy. Therefore, the five-year increase for Land Use Alternative A Project demand is 161 afy.42
Table 5.2-16 presents the combined projected water demand for the Cal Water LAS District, Apple Campus
2 development and Land Use Alternative A.
42 807 afy divided by 5 years = 161.4 afy.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-162 JUNE 18, 2014
TABLE 5.2‐16 PROJECTED WATER DEMAND CAL WATER LAS DISTRICT + LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A (AFY)
2008
(Actual)
2012
(Actual) 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
LAS District 15,490 12,779 13,641 12,651 13,200 13,749 14,298 14,847
Land Use Alternative A 0 0 0 161 322 482 644 807
Total 15,490 12,779 13,641 12,812 13,522 14,231 14,942 15,654
Note: afy = acre feet per year.
Source: Table 9 (Cal Water) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014. Note: The value for Total Demand in 2015 presented in WSE
Table 9 is 14,065 afy. However, this value appears to be in error; the assumed correct value (13,641 afy) is presented in the table above.
In normal hydrologic years, non-contract water43 is expected to be available. Cal Water also expects
increases in approved SCVWD deliveries will eventually reduce availability of non-contract water.
According to the SCVWD, LAS District projected water scheduled delivery amounts will be available
through at least 2035.44
As previously indicated, the LAS District has historically pumped only a fraction of its total annualized
groundwater well capacity, leaving the balance in groundwater storage. Because of this banking practice,
there is an adequate supply of stored groundwater in the aquifers supplying LAS District wells.
Normal Hydrologic Year
Total groundwater supplied is the quantity necessary to make up the difference between LAS District
demand and SCVWD supplies – both scheduled and non-contract deliveries. Therefore, total supply equals
projected demand for any given year. A normal hydrologic year supply is considered the same as the SB X7 7
target water demand projections. Table 5.2-17 shows that groundwater will be reliable throughout the 26-
year planning horizon of Land Use Alternative B and that no supply deficiencies are expected during a
normal hydrologic year.45
Single Dry Year
In single dry years Cal Water can expect a reduction in non-contract water and may possibly see a reduction
in firm scheduled deliveries. If any reduction in scheduled deliveries were to occur, the needed supply could
be made up by pumping stored groundwater.46
43 Cal Water has a contract with SCVWD until 2035 to purchase treated surface water and convey it to the LAS District. The SCVWD
“contract” water is delivered through four connections within its transmission system. "Non-contract” water is water not included in the
contracted water.
44 California Water Service Company. 2010. 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Los Altos-Suburban District. June 2011.
45 California Water Service Company. 2010. 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Los Altos-Suburban District. June 2011.
46 California Water Service Company. 2010. 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Los Altos-Suburban District. June 2011.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-163
TABLE 5.2‐17 DEMAND AND SUPPLY COMPARISON – NORMAL HYDROLOGIC YEAR: CAL WATER LAS DISTRICT + LAND
USE ALTERNATIVE A (AFY)
2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
Total Demand 13,641 12,812 13,522 14,231 14,942 15,654
SCVWD Supply 10,200 9,700 10,200 11,200 12,120 13,000
LAS Groundwater 3,441 3,378 3,855 3,831 3,888 3,984
Total Supply 13,641 13,078 14,055 15,031 16,008 16,984
Difference 0 266 533 800 1,066 1,330
Source: Table 14 (Cal Water) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014; Demand is modified to reflect Land Use Alternative A; Supply
is as presented in WSE (i.e. original values in Table 14 of WSE). Note: The supply surplus (Difference) shown in the table is theoretical. Total groundwater
actually supplied would be the quantity necessary to make up the difference between LAS District demand and SCVWD supplies – both scheduled and Non‐
Contract deliveries. Hence, in practice, total supply always equals projected demand for any given year.
During a single dry year it is unlikely that SCVWD would request a reduction in its retailer’s (i.e.
CalWater’s and SJWC’s) water demand. SCVWD maintains carryover storage in its reservoirs, locally
stored groundwater reserves, and has access of up to 50,000 afy of drought supplies stored as groundwater
in the Semitropic Groundwater Bank.47 According to SCVWD’s 2010 UWMP there will be a 5 percent
shortfall in treated water contract deliveries in 2020 and 2025. After this time it is expected that projects
resulting from their Water Master Plan will create sufficient additional supplies so that contract deliveries
can be met during single dry years. It is assumed that groundwater will provide the necessary supply to meet
dry year demands if purchased water reductions are required.
Table 5.2-18 shows that increased groundwater pumping would be able to supply the difference in order to
meet 2020 and 2025 demand. Because no reduction in SCVWD supplies are anticipated, the groundwater
supply would remain the same. Therefore, the combination of pumped groundwater and purchased water
will be sufficient to meet projected single-dry year demands.
Multiple Dry Years
SCVWD gives highest priority to delivery of Contract water to urban water retailers and indicates it can
deliver 100 percent of its contracted supply obligations even during multiple dry year periods. However,
during such periods, SCVWD will reduce or eliminate deliveries of Non-Contract water. If drought
conditions warrant, SCVWD will reduce or eliminate surface water recharging to aquifers within its service
area. If further reductions are necessary, deliveries to agricultural customers will be reduced or eliminated.
Deliveries to SCVWD urban water retailers are the last to be affected by drought conditions.
47 SCVWD.2013.Board Agenda Memo; Budget Adjustment for 2012 Water Banking Operations; January 22, 2013.
http://cf.valleywater.org/About_Us/Board_of_directors/Board_meetings/_2013_Published_Meetings/MG49261/AS49274/AI49995/DO
50113/DO_50113.pdf.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-164 JUNE 18, 2014
TABLE 5.2‐18 DEMAND AND SUPPLY COMPARISON ‐ ONE DRY YEAR: CAL WATER LAS DISTRICT + LAND USE
ALTERNATIVE A (AFY)
2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
Total Demand 13,641 12,812 13,522 14,231 14,942 15,654
SCVWD Supply 10,200 9,700 10,200 11,200 12,120 13,000
LAS Groundwater 3,441 3,378 3,855 3,831 3,888 3,984
Total Supply 113,641 13,078 14,055 15,031 16,008 16,984
Difference 0 266 533 800 1,066 1,330
Note: afy = acre feet per year.
Source: Table 15 (Cal Water) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014; Demand is modified to reflect Land Use Alternative A; Supply
is as presented in WSE (i.e. original values in Table 15 of WSE). Note: The supply surplus (Difference) shown in the table is theoretical. Total groundwater
actually supplied is the quantity necessary to make up the difference between LAS District demand and SCVWD supplies – both scheduled and Non‐
Contract deliveries. Hence, in practice, total supply always equals projected demand for any given year.
Based on SCVWD supplies and policies, Cal Water expects that 100 percent of Contract water will be
delivered to the LAS District during a multiple dry year period. Cal Water also plans on pumping its LAS
District groundwater supplies so that there will be no reduction in total supply available to meet water
demands.
In the following multiple dry year period analysis, normal supply of Contract Water is expected to be
available, but Non-Contract deliveries are not. This assumes that reservoir carryover storage in SWP, CVP,
and local systems is average prior to the drought. At the beginning of a prolonged drought period, it is also
assumed that there are adequate supplies of groundwater stored in the aquifers pumped.
Cal Water also assumes that in future multiple dry year periods, SCVWD would initially ask for voluntary
reductions in supply requested by 10 percent. The magnitude of reductions requested could increase
depending on the degree and duration of the drought. SCVWD considers its groundwater and imported
supplies as one source and does not distinguish between water sources when asking for demand reductions
from its retailers. As a result, retail agencies would be asked to reduce total demand, not just imported
water use. Cal Water expects that its LAS District customers would be able to achieve these requested
reductions in water use. In the LAS District, total annual water use per customer is expected to be lower
than in previous dry year periods due to the greater investment in water conservation programs that would
be implemented in coming years. As seen in the more recent drought from 2007-2009, the response by Cal
Water customers in reducing water use would likely occur faster than in past droughts due to improved
water conservation plans and better communications on the need to reduce water use.
Table 5.2-19 compares demand to supply for a 4 year multiple dry year period. For the first three years, the
analysis conservatively assumes that demand would remain unchanged from a normal hydrologic year and
that in the fourth year demand would decrease by 10 percent as does the delivery of SCWVD “contract”
water. In all cases, the supply is projected to meet 100 percent of demand. It is noted that even if demand
did not decrease by 10 percent in year 4 and SCVWD supply did, the increased groundwater supplied in
2040 would be 1,565 acre feet for a total of 3,963 acre feet, which can be pumped by the LAS District by
increasing well operation times.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-165
TABLE 5.2‐19 DEMAND AND SUPPLY COMPARISON ‐ MULTIPLE DRY YEAR PERIOD (4 YEARS): CAL WATER LAS
DISTRICT + LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A (AFY)
2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
Total Demand: Years 1 ‐ 3 13,641 12,812 13,522 14,231 14,942 15,654
SCVWD Supply 10,200 9,700 10,200 11,200 12,120 3,000
LAS Groundwater 3,441 3,378 3,855 3,831 3,888 3,984
Total Supply 13,641 13,078 14,055 15,031 16,008 16,984
Difference 0 266 533 800 1,066 1,330
Total Demand: Year 4 12,277 11,530 12,170 12,808 13,448 14,089
SCVWD Supply 9,180 8,730 9,180 10,080 10,908 11,700
LAS Groundwater 3,097 2,800 2,990 2,728 2,540 2,389
Difference 0 0 0 0 0 0
Note: afy = acre feet per year.
Source: Table 16 (Cal Water) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014. Demand years 1‐3 is modified to reflect Land Use Alternative
B; Supply years 1 – 3 as presented in WSE (i.e., original values in WSE table 16); Demand year 4 is modified to reflect Land Use Alternative B, and reduced
10% [per WSE assumptions]; SCVWD Supply year 4 is reduced 10% [per WSE assumptions]; LAS Groundwater supply year 4 is adjusted so that total supply
matches demand [per assumptions in WSE]. Note: The supply surplus (Difference) shown in the table for years 1 – 3 is theoretical. Total groundwater
actually supplied is the quantity necessary to make up the difference between LAS District demand and SCVWD supplies – both scheduled and Non‐
Contract deliveries. Hence, in practice, total supply always equals projected demand for any given year.
As summarized in the WSE, based on the items listed below, it can be reasonably concluded for the next 26
years of operation (2014 – 2040), the LAS District will have adequate water supplies to meet projected
demands associated with Land Use Alternative A under the most conservative assumptions regarding potable
water use for normal hydrologic, single dry year and multiple dry year conditions:48
Adequacy of existing and planned supplies from SCVWD and LAS District groundwater.
Plans to maintain existing wells and construct new ones to increase well production capacity.
Plans to continue to purchase SCVWD Non-Contract water whenever it is made available and thereby
increase basin groundwater storage for use during drought periods.
In-place, ongoing and planned expanded water conservation programs and best management practices
for reducing demand during normal hydrologic years, single dry year and multiple dry years in
compliance with SB X7 7, CPUC and MOU requirements.
Cal Water’s historic proven success in obtaining increased reductions in water use during multiple dry
years by implementing its demand reduction program.
Over 80 years of experience in continuously providing an adequate supply to meet demands during
normal, single and multiple dry years in the LAS District.
48California Water Service Company. 2010. 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Los Altos-Suburban District. June 2011.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-166 JUNE 18, 2014
In summary, buildout of Land Use Alternative A would not result in insufficient water supplies from Cal
Water under normal year conditions. In addition, during single dry year and multiple dry years, with the
proposed and existing water conservation regulations and measures in place, buildout of Land Use
Alternative A also would not result in a significant impact on water supply from Cal Water.
San Jose Water Company
Table 5.2-20 shows the actual amount of water supplied to SJWC’s system from each source in 2010 and
projections until 2035. Projected surface water is based on a long term average at SJWC. Groundwater and
SCVWD Treated Water projections include SJWC’s plan to acquire additional water needed for
development projects by installing production wells within the distribution system, by purchasing additional
treated water from SCVWD and recycled water from the South Bay Water Recycling Program. The overall
long-term strategy for groundwater as discussed in the 2003 SCVWD Integrated Water Resource Planning
Study (IWRP) is to maximize the amount of water available in the groundwater basins to protect against
drought and emergencies. SCVWD attempts to maximize use of treated local and imported water when
available.
TABLE 5.2‐20 CURRENT AND PROJECTED SJWC WATER SUPPLY – INCLUDING CONSERVATION (AFY)
2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035
SCVWD Treated Water 64,783 72,636 74,344 76,086 77,864 79,677
SJWC Groundwater 51,107 57,187 58,340 59,516 60,716 61,940
SJWC Surface Water 15,968 12,080 12,080 12,080 12,080 12,080
Total Demand 131,858 141,903 144,764 147,682 150,660 153,697
Recycled Water 1,208 2,556 4,980 5,234 5,501 5,782
Additional Conservation 4,886 5,106 5,300 5,438 5,579 5,579
Total with Conservation 137,952 149,565 155,044 158,354 161,740 165,058
Note: afy = acre feet per year.
Source: Table 6 (SJWC) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 15, 2014.
As previously noted, conservation is treated by SJWC as an additional source of water that offsets potable
water demand. SJWC projects an increase in conservation through 2035 to over 5,500 afy conserved due to
implementation of a more intensified conservation program. Conservation savings are anticipated resulting
from increased use of ultra-low flush toilets, high efficiency toilets, low flow showerheads, water efficient
appliances, individual conservation, and reduction in landscape irrigation requirements.
The SCVWD will continue to work with SJWC and other local water retailers to refine future projections
of both treated water and groundwater use to ensure planning efforts are consistent. Groundwater from the
Basin is a substantial source of water for SJWC’s entire service area. In the past five years, groundwater has
been the source for approximately one third of SJWC’s total supply.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-167
The City of Cupertino, as discussed previously, has leased the operation and maintenance of its water system
to SJWC. Based on information from SJWC, approximately 98 percent of water supply for the City’s water
system is purchased from SCVWD. SJWC periodically operates two city wells with a nominal pumping rate
of 500 gpm each for a combined production of 1,000 gpm. For the 17 years that SJWC has been operating
the Cupertino system, increases in demand have been met by increased purchases from SCVWD and are
factored into the demand projections made by SJWC in Table 4.14-4. Therefore, the water supply analysis
provided for SJWC also applies to the City of Cupertino system.
SJWC has multiple sources of water which provide a high degree of supply reliability. For added reliability,
SJWC incorporates diesel fueled generators which will operate wells and pumps in the event of power
outages. Because SCVWD supplies nearly 90 percent of SJWC’s annual water supply, SJWC depends on
SCVWD’s supply reliability measures.
SJWC has an established well replacement program. The program identifies and replaces two wells per year
based on numerous criteria, including a well’s production and observed water quality problems. The
replacement of older wells and optimization of existing wells will allow SJWC to maintain its groundwater
supply reliability. SCVWD’s policy is to achieve 95 percent reliability of supply during significant water
shortages that occur during multiyear droughts. To accomplish this, SJWC can use less groundwater in
certain areas or zones to achieve the overall balance which best meets SCVWD’s and SJWC’s operational
goals.
Normal, Single-Dry, and Multiple Dry Hydrologic Years
Table 5.2-21 presents 2035 projected supply and demand during normal, single-dry, and multiple-dry years.
These numbers were generated by multiplying the current and 2035 demands by the percentages of normal
water supply SJWC experienced during the 1977 single year and the 1987-1992 multi-year droughts.
TABLE 5.2‐21 SJWC 2035 SUPPLY AND DEMAND ‐‐ NORMAL, SINGLE‐DRY, AND MULTIPLE‐DRY YEARS (ACRE FEET)
2035 Supply and Demand
Normal
Water Year
Single‐Dry
Water Year
Multiple‐Dry Water Years
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5
Supply Total 153,697 109,279 152,929 149,701 123,572 121,882 110,816
Demand Total 153,697 109,279 152,929 149,701 123,572 121,882 110,816
Difference 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Source: Table 15 (SJWC) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 15, 2014.
If during a drought the SJWC should experience a shortage of supply, it will activate its current Water
Shortage Contingency Plan. As noted in the WSE (May 20, 2014) prepared for the City, “although there
appears to be shortages during droughts, in reality voluntary and involuntary water conservation greatly reduces demand.”
The SJWC foresees meeting all future demands.
SJWC has multiple sources of water which provide a high degree of supply reliability. For added reliability,
SJWC incorporates diesel fueled generators which will operate wells and pumps in the event of power
outages. SJWC also has an established well replacement program. The program identifies and replaces two
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-168 JUNE 18, 2014
wells per year based on numerous criteria, including a well’s production and observed water quality
problems. The replacement of older wells and optimization of existing wells will allow SJWC to maintain
its groundwater supply reliability.
The WSE includes detailed calculations of water demand from Land Use Alternative A, based on the land use
in the SJWC (plus Cupertino Water) service area. As reported in the WSE, total projected water demand at
build out of Land Use Alternative A for the SJWC and leased Cupertino Water service areas is estimated to
be 165 afy without taking into account requirements for water conservation measures to be incorporated
into new development. If these measures are accounted for, Land Use Alternative A water demand in the
SJWC service area is 140 afy.
As previously noted, the total projected increase in the SJWC demand between 2015 and 2040 (25 years)
for a normal hydrologic year is 14,831afy.49 The Land Use Alternative A demand at buildout represents less
than 1 percent of this total SJWC demand.
Since the SJWC 2010 UWMP projected increased demand is based on general growth in its service area, it
is reasonable to assume that Land Use Alternative A demand is accounted for in the overall demand forecast
as it constitutes a small percentage.
SJWC currently owns rights to receive water from the following sources: 1) groundwater - from the Santa
Clara Valley Sub-basin; 2) imported surface water - from the SCVWD; and 3) local surface water - from Los
Gatos Creek and Local Watershed.
Based on the foregoing reasons, there is sufficient SJWC water available to supply the demand projected for
Land Use Alternative A for all existing demand and other projected increases in water demand for the next
26 years for normal, one dry year and multiple dry year periods.
In summary, buildout of Land Use Alternative A would not result in insufficient SJWC water supplies under
normal year conditions. In addition, during single dry year and multiple dry years, with the proposed and
existing water conservation regulations and measures in place, buildout of Land Use Alternative A would
not result in a significant impact on SJWC water supply.
Combined Water Supply
In conclusion, compliance with General Plan policies and strategies, applicable regulations, which are listed
below, would further reduce potential impacts on water supplies for both retailers (SJWC and Cal Water).
Future development within the Project Study Area would include the latest technology in water efficient
plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems, as specified in the 2010 California Plumbing Code and the Cal
Water’s and SJWC’s water efficiency measures relevant to new residential and commercial development.
49 156,734 afy minus 141,903 afy equals14,831 afy; see Table 4.14-4 .
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-169
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate water supplies
are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-76,
Stevens Creek Park, would require the Santa Clara County Parks program to pursue the goal of connecting
upper and lower Stevens Creek Parks. The County parks budget should pursue acquisition to the extent
possible and emphasize passive park development in keeping with the pristine nature of the hillsides, and
work to retain the watershed and storage basin properties of Stevens Creek. Policy 2-77, Continuous Open
Space, would require the City to actively pursue inter-agency cooperation including with the SCVWD,
which can help Cupertino carry out its open space policies by continuing to cooperate with local
government to fund access and restoration projects. For example, SCVWD helped Cupertino prepare its
natural flood plain policy for Stevens Creek between Stevens Creek Boulevard and the Stevens Creek
reservoir, which has implications for ground water recharge and water quality. Policy 2-88, Park Design,
would require the City to design parks to utilize the natural features and topography of the site and to keep
long-term maintenance costs low. Strategy 1, Native Plants, would require the City to maximize the use of
native plants and minimize water use. Strategy 2, Creek Enhancement, would require the City to, where
possible, open and restore covered creeks and riparian habitat. Strategy 3, Demonstration Gardens, would
require the City to consider the creation of demonstration gardens in some parks where feasible as a method
of educating the public on sustainable landscaping design and techniques. Within the Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability, would require the City to
incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s planning and development system in order to
improve the environment, reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet the needs of the present community
without compromising the needs of future generations. Policy 5-29, Coordination of Local Conservation
Policies with Region-wide Conservation Policies, directs the City to continue coordination with regional
water districts regarding water conservation efforts, including compliance with drought plans. Additionally,
Policy 6-19, Water Conservation and Demand Reduction Measures, would direct the City to proactively
reduce water use, consistent with State goals. Strategies 1 through 3 under this policy would, respectively,
direct the City to develop and Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP), comply with the State’s 20x20x20
Water Conservation Plan, and increase the use of recycled water where feasible. This coordination and
compliance with regional and State conservation programs and requirements would serve to reduce water
use and demand overall and especially during drought years, which would serve to ensure adequate water
supplies under implementation of Land Use Alternative A.Buildout of Land Use Alternative A would not
result in insufficient water supplies from either SJWC or Cal Water under normal, single-dry, or multiple
dry years, and new or expanded entitlements would not be needed. Impacts from the implementation of
Land Use Alternative A would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
The Water Conservation Act of 2009 (Senate Bill SB X7 7)
2010 California Plumbing Code that would require water conserving fixtures
Cupertino’s Landscaping Ordinance - Municipal Code Chapter 14.15
Cupertino’s Water Conservation Ordinance - Municipal Code Chapter 15.32
SJWC’s, Cal Water’s and SCVWD’s water supply and demand management strategies and water
shortage contingency plan identified in the UWMPs
City of Cupertino General Plan
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-170 JUNE 18, 2014
UTIL-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not require or result in the
construction of new water facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the
construction of which would cause significant environmental effects.
As discussed in Impact UTIL-1 above, the water demand associated with Land Use Alternative A would be
served with available and planned water supplies provided by Cal Water and SJWC.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate water supplies
are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy 5-26,
Recycled Water, would direct the City to explore opportunities for the use of recycled water, including the
potential expansion of an existing recycled water line from Sunnyvale to the Homestead Road area. This
development of this facility could cause significant environmental effects. Policy 7-4, New Development
Public Infrastructure Requirements, would require new development to provide or pay for adequate public
facilities to accommodate growth; this policy could therefore result in the construction of new water
facilities or the expansion of existing facilities to serve new development. Although creation of new
infrastructure or facilities associated with these policies could create significant environmental effects,
compliance with applicable regulations, as discussed below, as well as project-level environmental review
would serve to evaluate and mitigate potential adverse physical effects.
In addition, future development under Land Use Alternative A would be located within already-developed
urban areas and therefore, would connect to an existing water distribution system. Future development
would be required to pay fees as outlined in Section 4.14.1.1, Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.14,
Utilities and Service Systems, of this Draft EIR, allocated to service, system maintenance and capital
upgrades.
In summary, in accordance with the General Plan policies listed above and under Impact UTIL-1, and
applicable regulations below, buildout of Land Use Alternative A would not result in water demands that
would require the construction of new water treatment facilities or the expansion of existing facilities. As a
result, impacts would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
The Water Conservation Act of 2009 (Senate Bill SB X7 7)
2010 California Plumbing Code that would require water conserving fixtures
Cupertino’s Landscaping Ordinance - Municipal Code Chapter 14.15
Cupertino’s Water Conservation Ordinance - Municipal Code Chapter 15.32
SJWC’s, Cal Water’s and SCVWD’s water supply and demand management strategies and water
shortage contingency plan identified in the UWMPs
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-171
UTIL-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in less than significant
cumulative impacts with respect to water supply.
This section analyzes potential impacts to water supply that could occur from Land Use Alternative A in
combination with other reasonably foreseeable projects in the surrounding area. The geographic scope of
this cumulative analysis is taken as the Cal Water and SJWC service areas. While Land Use Alternative A
would contribute to an increased cumulative demand for water supply, the increased demand would not
exceed the long-term supply under normal circumstances, as discussed above. Additionally, Cal Water,
SJWC and SCVWD UWMPs determine that the water supply will be sufficient to accommodate future
demand in the Cal Water and SJWC service areas through 2035, and by extension through 2040, under
normal circumstances. In the multiple dry years, with Cal Water, SJWC and SCVWD drought contingency
plans in place, any shortages would be managed through demand reductions and other measures such as
increased groundwater pumping. In addition, with SB X7 7 and the State, county, and local water
conservation ordinances in place, each jurisdiction would be required to conserve its water use through
establishing water efficiency measures. In addition, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that,
once adopted, would ensure adequate water supplies are available for the residents of Cupertino. Policy 5-
29, Coordination of Local Conservation Policies with Region-wide Conservation Policies, directs the City
to continue coordination with regional water districts regarding water conservation efforts, including
compliance with drought plans. This coordination and compliance would serve to reduce water use and
demand overall and especially during drought years. Additionally, Policy 6-19, Water Conservation and
Demand Reduction Measures, would direct the City to proactively reduce water use, consistent with State
goals. Strategies 1 through 3 under this policy would, respectively, direct the City to develop and Urban
Water Management Plan (UWMP), comply with the State’s 20x20x20 Water Conservation Plan, and
increase the use of recycled water where feasible. In addition, pursuant to SB 610 and SB 221, WSAs would
be prepared for large development projects prior to approval of each project to ensure adequate water
supply for new development.
Overall, cumulative water demands would neither exceed planned levels of supply nor require building new
water treatment facilities or expanding existing facilities beyond what is currently planned. In addition,
future development would be required to pay development fees (i.e. construction taxes), which would
offset the costs of system maintenance and capital upgrades to support the new development in the Cal
Water and SJWC service areas. Therefore, the cumulative impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
5.2-172 JUNE 18, 2014
Wastewater
UTIL-4 Implementation of Land Use Alter native A would not exceed wastewater
treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control
Board.
San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant
The Cupertino Sanitary District (CSD) sewer collection system directs wastewater to the San Jose/Santa
Clara Water Pollution Control Plant (SJ/SCWPCP), a joint powers authority. The San Francisco RWQCB
established wastewater treatment requirements for the SJ/SCWPCP in an NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-
2009-0038), adopted April 8, 2009 and effective June 1, 2009.50 The NPDES Order sets out a framework
for compliance and enforcement applicable to operation of the SJ/SCWPCP and its effluent, as well as
those contributing influent to the SJ/SCWPCP. This NPDES Order currently allows dry weather discharges
of up to 167 million gallons per day (mgd) with full tertiary treatment, and wet weather discharges of up to
271 mgd with full tertiary treatment.
As the dischargers named in the NPDES Permit, the City of San Jose and the City of Santa Clara implement
and enforce pretreatment programs for effluent discharged into Artesian Slough, tributary to Coyote Creek
and South San Francisco Bay. The dischargers conduct programs to educate residents, professionals, and
business owners about the proper use of their sewer and drainage systems in order to help preserve their
own facilities and to help protect the environment.
The CSD is one of six additional satellite collection systems that discharge into the SJ/SCWPCP. Each
satellite collection system is responsible for an ongoing program of maintenance and capital improvements
for sewer lines and pump stations within its respective jurisdiction in order to ensure adequate capacity and
reliability of the collection system. The responsibilities include managing overflows, controlling Infiltration
and Inflow (I&I) and implementing collection system maintenance.
The SJ/SCWPCP, serving as the Discharger, and has an approved pretreatment program, which include
approved local limits, as required by prior permits. The previous permit required the Discharger to evaluate
its local limits –such as those established by the CSD –to ensure compliance with updated effluent limits.
These local limits are approved as part of the pretreatment program required by this permit. The
SJ/SCWPCP is required to monitor the permitted discharges in order to evaluate compliance with permit
conditions.
With continued compliance with applicable regulations listed below, projected wastewater generated from
potential future development under Land Use Alternative A would not exceed the wastewater treatment
requirements or capacity of the SJ/SCWPCP. Therefore, the wastewater treatment requirements of the San
50 San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP.
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/board_info/agendas/2009/april/SJSC_FinalOrder%20-%204-09.pdf
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
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Francisco RWQCB would not be exceeded due to buildout of Land Use Alternative A, resulting in a less-
than-significant impact.
City of Sunnyvale Water Pollution Control Plant
The Sunnyvale sewer collection system, which serves a small area of the Project Component locations along
Stevens Creek Boulevard, directs wastewater to the Sunnyvale Water Pollution Control Plant (SWPCP). The
San Francisco RWQCB established wastewater treatment requirements for the SWPCP in an NPDES
Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061), adopted August 12, 2009 and effective October 1, 2009. Discharge
Prohibition III.C of the permit states the average dry weather effluent flow shall not exceed 29.5 mgd.
Exceeding the SWPCP’s average dry weather flow design capacity (29.5 mgd) may result in lowering the
reliability of achieving compliance with water quality requirements. The prohibition against exceeding
design capacity is meant to ensure effective wastewater treatment by limiting flows to the SWPCP’s design
treatment capability.
Treated wastewater from the SWPCP flows into Moffett Channel, which is a tributary to the Guadalupe
Slough and the South San Francisco Bay. The SWPCP has an average dry weather flow design capacity of
29.5 mgd and a 40 mgd peak wet weather flow capacity. The average dry weather flow discharged to Moffett
Channel during the months of June, July, August, and September in 2006-2008 was 9.4 mgd. The average
flow discharged to Moffett Chanel was 11.8 mgd during 2006 - 2008, the average wet weather flow
(October-May) discharged to Moffett Chanel was 13.1 mgd during 2006 – 2008, and the maximum daily
effluent flow rate was 35 mgd during 2006 -200851.
All public entities that own or operate sanitary sewer systems greater than one mile in length – including
the CSD and the SJ/SCWPCP – that collect and/or convey untreated or partially treated wastewater to a
publicly owned treatment facility in the State of California are required to comply with the terms of State
Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Order. No. 2006-0003-DWQ, as amended by Order No. WQ
2008-0002-EXEC. These public entities are considered “enrollees” of the statewide permit, as amended.
One purpose of the statewide SWRCB permit is to prevent sewer system overflows (SSOs). Major causes of
SSOs include: grease blockages, root blockages, sewer line flood damage, manhole structure failures,
vandalism, pump station mechanical failures, power outages, excessive storm or ground water
inflow/infiltration, debris blockages, sanitary sewer system age and construction material failures, lack of
proper operation and maintenance, insufficient capacity and contractor-caused damages. Many SSOs are
preventable with adequate and appropriate facilities, source control measures and operation and
maintenance of the sanitary sewer system. To facilitate proper management of sanitary sewer systems, each
Enrollee must develop and implement a system-specific Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP).
With continued compliance with applicable regulations listed below, projected wastewater generated from
potential future development under Land Use Alternative A would not exceed the wastewater treatment
requirements or capacity of the SWPCP. Therefore, the wastewater treatment requirements of the San
51 San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061 )for City of Sunnyvale WPCP.
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/board_decisions/adopted_orders/2009/R2-2009-0061.pdf
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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Francisco RWQCB would not be exceeded due to buildout of Land Use Alternative A, resulting in a less-
than-significant impact.
Applicable Regulations
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061) for SWPCP
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management Plan
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not require or result in the
construction of new wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental
effects.
Buildout of Land Use Alternative A would have a significant impact if it would result in the construction of
new wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which would have
a significant effect on the environment. As discussed above in Impact UTIL-4 above and Impact UTIL-6
below, future demands from Land Use Alternative A would not exceed the design or permitted capacity of
the wastewater treatment plants serving the Project Study Area (i.e. SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP). The
potential impacts to the collection system would be addressed through applicable General Plan policies and
measures as identified in Impact UTIL-6 below. In addition, the CSD’s requirement for new projects to
prepare a hydraulic model and, if necessary, improve collection system capacity would ensure that demands
from individual projects in the Project Study Area would not significantly impact the wastewater collection
service. The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate
wastewater collection and treatment facilities are available for the residents of Cupertino. Policy 5-26,
Recycled Water, would direct the City to continue to explore opportunities for the use of recycled water,
including the potential expansion of an existing recycled water line from Sunnyvale to the Homestead Road
area. Policy 5-22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning, would
direct the City to encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning and zoning by
examining the project in the context of the entire watershed area. Strategy 1, Storm Drainage Master Plan,
would direct the City to develop and maintain a Storm Drainage Master Plan, which would result in the
creation of new wastewater treatment facilities or conveyance systems. Additionally, Policy 7-4, New
Development Public Infrastructure Requirements, would require new development to provide or pay for
adequate public facilities to accommodate growth; this policy could therefore result in the construction of
new wastewater facilities or the expansion of existing facilities to serve new development. The development
of treatment facilities or conveyance systems associated with recycled water, wastewater, and/or improved
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-175
stormwater systems could cause significant environmental effects; however, compliance with applicable
regulations, as discussed below, and project-level environmental review would serve to evaluate and mitigate
potential adverse physical effects. As a result, the impact would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061) for SWPCP
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management Plan
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would result in a determination by
the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that
it does not have adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in
addition to the provider’s existing commitments.
Buildout of Land Use Alternative A would have a significant impact if future projected demand exceeds the
wastewater service capacity of the SJ/SCWPCP or SWPCP, or the CSD or City of Sunnyvale collection
systems.
Collection Systems
Cupertino Sanitary District
Specific capacity deficiencies for specific sewer lines were identified in the current Cupertino General Plan
update, including sewer lines serving the City Center, and lines on Stelling Road and Foothill Boulevard.
City Center is the general area at the southeast quadrant of the intersection of De Anza Blvd and Stevens
Creek Blvd. Trunk lines serving the City Center identified as flowing either at or above capacity include
those in Stevens Creek Boulevard between Randy Lane and Wolfe Road, and those in Wolfe Road south of I-
280 and between Pruneridge Avenue and I-280. An additional trunk line, consisting of 10-inch to 18-inch
sewer lines located in Randy Lane, Wheaton Drive, Denison Avenue and Norwich Avenue, was also
identified as operating at or above capacity in a 2000 flow study performed as part of the City Center
development. Capacity improvements have been made to the lines on Wolfe Road. The other lines identified
as providing insufficient capacity for existing flows have not been upgraded to date. New developments that
substantially increase wastewater capacity, including projects potentially associated with Land Use
Alternative A buildout, could result in wastewater flows that exceed the collection system capacity. To
address this possibility, the CSD would require developers of substantial projects to demonstrate that
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5.2-176 JUNE 18, 2014
adequate capacity exists, or to identify the necessary mitigations. The CSD defines substantial projects as
those projected to generate substantial increases in wastewater. In these situations, the developer is required
to prepare a hydraulic model of the pipe system between the project and the downstream limits of CSD
facilities. To demonstrate capacity is available, the model must show that existing pipes flow less than two-
thirds full when the new development wastewater flow is added to existing flows. In the event that adequate
capacity is not available, improvements would need to be identified and constructed to provide a system that
flows at less than two-thirds full. The requirement to prepare a hydraulic model and, if necessary, improve
capacity is a standard condition of the CSD required for new development, independent of Land Use
Alternative A. As a result, impacts on the CSD collection system would be less than significant.
Furthermore, the CSD is currently performing a capacity analysis of their entire collection system.
Improvements required to mitigate system deficiencies as well as to accommodate future development will
be identified and added to their Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Capacity fees will then be developed
to fund the CIP. New development that increases wastewater transmission and treatment demand would be
required to contribute towards system capacity enhancement improvements through payment of the
capacity fee. In this manner, CSD would be responsible for upgrading their system rather than placing the
responsibility on the developers of the largest wastewater generators, as is currently the case. If and when
this fee is developed and implemented, it will create a more reliable and equitable mitigation for new
development.
City of Sunnyvale
Buildout of the portion of the Heart of the City Special Area east of Finch Avenue and south of Stevens
Creek Boulevard could result in wastewater flows to the City of Sunnyvale that exceed the downstream pipe
capacity if large office developments are allowed. Trunk service mains would require capacity enhancing
improvements if large office users are allowed in the Cupertino service area.
Development in this area is guided by the Heart of the City Specific Plan. This Specific Plan does allow office
uses in the entire corridor with appropriate mitigation measures. However, development adjacent to the
single family residences on the east side along Stevens Creek Boulevard would not be large office campuses
due to the small size of the properties and the need to maintain compatibility with adjoining single-family
residential uses. Offices allowed in this area would be smaller, like attorney’s offices or small office spaces .
Modification of the Heart of the City Specific Plan to allow large office space in the area would require
further environmental review, which would address sanitary sewer capacity issues, as well as neighborhood
compatibility. Without modification of the Heart of the City Specific Plan, the City of Sunnyvale could
continue to provide system capacity for future growth in its Cupertino service area. As a result, impacts on
the City of Sunnyvale collection system would be less than significant.
Treatment Systems
San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant
The CSD calculated wastewater flow associated with the 2020 General Plan development allocations,
together with existing flows at the time the General Plan was approved, to be 7.2 mgd. The projected
additional wastewater generated by buildout of Land Use Alternative A, over and above the current General
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-177
Plan flows, is calculated to be less than 0.13 mgd. Adding the Land Use Alternative A buildout flows (less
than 1.45 mgd) to the current General Plan flow (7.2 mgd) results in a total wastewater generation of less
than 7.33 mgd. The total contractual treatment allocation with the SJ/SCWPCP is 7.8 mgd. Thus, upon
buildout of Land Use Alternative A, 0.47 mgd treatment capacity would be available. As a result, impacts on
the contractual treatment capacity at SJ/SCWPCP would be less than significant.
City of Sunnyvale
The SWPCP has a capacity of 29.5 mgd and is currently operating at a daily treatment rate of less than 15
mgd. The projected wastewater generation for the entire Heart of the City Special Area is 0.44 mgd or less.
The portion of this Special Area served by the SWPCP is 4 percent of the total area of the Special Area.
Assuming a uniform use distribution across the entire Special Area, the wastewater flow to the City of
Sunnyvale would be 0.02 mgd or less. The projected increase amounts to 0.12-percent or less of the current
daily treatment flow of 15 mgd, and 0.06 percent or less of the SWPCP’s dry weather permitted capacity.
Thus, the projected increase in wastewater is within the available capacity, and impacts on the SWPCP
would be less than significant.
Summary
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate wastewater
collection and treatment facilities are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Public Utilities,
Infrastructure, and Services Element, Policy 7-2, Sunnyvale Treatment Plant, would require the City to
consider the impacts on the Sunnyvale sanitary sewer system if significant office uses are proposed in the
east Stevens Creek Boulevard area. Policy 7-3, Sewer Tributary Lines, would require the City to recognize
that new high discharge users in the Vallco area and the Stevens Creek Boulevard and Blaney Avenue areas
will require private developers to pay for the upgrading of tributary lines. Strategy 1, Cost Estimates, would
require the City to develop preliminary cost estimates for the upgrading of the sewer tributary lines to
discuss with prospective developers.
While the current General Plan recognizes existing system deficiencies in both the CSD and City of
Sunnyvale wastewater service areas and includes the following policies to address this issue, Land Use
Alternative A is within the current contractually available treatment capacity at SJ/SCWPCP and impacts
would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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5.2-178 JUNE 18, 2014
UTIL-7 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than significant
cumulative impacts with respect to wastewater treatment.
This section analyzes potential impacts related to wastewater treatment that could occur from Land Use
Alternative A in combination with reasonably foreseeable growth within the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP
service areas.
Buildout of Land Use Alternative A would generate a minor increase in the volume of wastewater delivered
for treatment at SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP. This increase represents less than 1 percent of the available
treatment capacity at the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP, and it would occur incrementally over a period of 26
years. Both the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP serving the Project Study Area currently use less than their design
and permitted wastewater treatment capacity. Cumulative wastewater treatment demand over Land Use
Alternative A buildout period – based on the recent trends of diminishing wastewater treatment demand
and the generally projected population growth in the service areas – is far below the excess capacity of the
SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP. Because the cumulative demand would not substantially impact the existing or
planned capacity of the wastewater treatment systems, which have sufficient capacity for wastewater that
would be produced by Land Use Alternative A, the construction of new wastewater treatment facilities
would not be necessary.
Additionally, future development under the Land Use Alternative A would be subject to the development
review process and would be required to mitigate any effects to wastewater treatment services on a project-
by-project basis. Future development would also be required to comply with all applicable regulations and
ordinances protecting wastewater treatment services as described in Section 4.14.2.1, Environmental
Setting, in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems.
Wastewater from cumulative projects would be treated according to the wastewater treatment requirements
documented in the respective NPDES permits for the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP, and enforced by the San
Francisco RWQCB.
Therefore, cumulative projects would not exceed wastewater treatment requirements, and cumulative
impacts to sanitary wastewater service would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant
Solid Waste
UTIL-8 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A would not be served by a
landfill(s) with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the
alternative’s solid waste disposal needs.
Existing and potential development under Land Use Alternative A would not be served by landfill sites with
sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the city’s solid waste disposal needs, based on existing
contractual agreements. As described in Section 4.14.3.1, Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.14, Utilities
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
PLACEWORKS 5.2-179
and Service Systems, of this Draft EIR, 99 percent of all solid waste generated in Cupertino – which
includes City [Recology] hauled waste, as well as self-hauled waste from private projects within the City --
is disposed at four different landfill facilities. One hundred (100) percent of City [Recology] hauled waste –
which accounts for 92 percent of the total waste volume – goes to one landfill (Newby Island).Table 5.2-22
compares the remaining capacity, maximum daily and annual capacity, and estimated closure date for each
facility.
TABLE 5.2‐22 LANDFILLS EXISTING CAPACITY AND ESTIMATED CLOSURE DATE
Landfill Facility
Remaining Capacity
(cubic yard)
Daily Capacity
(tons/day)
Estimated
Closure Date
Newby Island Landfill 18,274,953
(as of 10/16/2006) 4,000 6/1/2025a
Guadalupe Sanitary Landfill 11,055,758
(as of 1/1/2011) 1,300 1/1/2048
Monterey Peninsula Landfill 48,560,000
(as of 12/31/2004) 3,500 2/28/2107
Altamont Landfill 45,720,000
(as of 8/22/2005) 1,500 1/1/2025
a. The agreement between the Newby Island Landfill and the City of Cupertino ends in 2023.
Source: CalRecycle, 2014.
In 2012, the city of Cupertino’s actual disposal rate for residents was 2.6 pounds per person per day (PPD)
with the target of 4.3 PPD. For employees, the disposal rate was 4.3 PPD with the target rate of 8.1 PPD.52
The City of Cupertino’s disposal rates for both residents and employees have been below target rates and
steadily decreasing since 2007.53
The per capita disposal rate target is also known as “the 50 percent equivalent per capita disposal target.” It is
the amount of disposal Cupertino would have had during the CalRecycle-designated base period (2003 –
2006) if it had been exactly at a 50 percent diversion rate. It is calculated by CalRecycle using the average
base period per capita generation for Cupertino (in pounds), then dividing this generation average in half to
determine the 50 percent equivalent per capita disposal target. The target is an indicator for comparison
with that jurisdiction’s annual per capita per day disposal rate beginning with the 2007 program year.
As shown on Table 5.2-23, at 2040 buildout of Land Use Alternative A, it is anticipated that the city will
generate solid waste at a rate of 98,305 tons/year, which equates to approximately 269 tons/day. The
anticipated amount of solid waste would have a less-than-significant impact with regard to daily per capita
disposal targets, but two of four currently-used landfill facilities that receive the majority of the city’s solid
waste are likely to reach their permitted maximum capacities by 2040 and will no longer be available. The
Newby Island Landfill facility will reach its capacity in 2025 (the City’s agreement with the facility ends
earlier, in 2023), and Altamont Landfill also is anticipated to reach its capacity in 2025, as shown in the Table
52 CalRecycle, “Jurisdiction per Capita Disposal Trends: Cupertino,” http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/, accessed on May 15, 2014.
53 CalRecycle, “Jurisdiction per Capita Disposal Trends: Cupertino,” http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/, accessed on May 15, 2014.
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5.2-180 JUNE 18, 2014
5.2-20. Since the Newby Island Landfill facility currently accepts 92 percent of the solid waste generated by
Cupertino, the City must find an alternative to this landfill when it closes in approximately ten years.
TABLE 5.2‐23 PROJECTED RESIDENTS, EMPLOYMENT, AND WASTE GENERATION AT 2040 BUILDOUT – LAND USE
ALTERNATIVE A
2012a Existing 2040 Buildout
Residents 59,022 58,302 63,783
Employment 35,438 27,387 32,593
Residential Disposal Rate Target (pounds/person/day) 4.3 4.3 4.3
Employee Disposal Rate Target (pounds/person/day) 8.1 8.1 8.1
Maximum Disposal (tons/year) 98,704 86,237 98,305
Actual Disposal (tons/year) 27,652 ‐ ‐
a. The latest data on the actual disposal information was from 2012.
Source: CalRecycle, 2014.
Anticipated rates of solid waste disposal would have a less-than-significant impact in regard to target disposal
rates, and the City would continue its current recycling ordinances and zero-waste policies. Nevertheless,
the 2023 termination of the agreement between the Newby Island Landfill facility, as well as the facility’s
estimated closure date in 2025 would result in insufficient solid waste disposal capacity at buildout of Land
Use Alternative A, resulting in a significant impact.
Mitigation Measure
The following mitigation measure is recommended to minimize the potential for implementation of Land
Use Alternative A to not be served by a landfill(s) with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate Land
Use Alternative A’s solid waste disposal needs:
Mitigation Measure UTIL-8: The City shall continue its current recycling ordinances and zero-waste
policies in an effort to further increase its diversion rate and lower its per capita disposal rate. In addition,
the City shall monitor solid waste generation volumes in relation to capacities at receiving landfill sites to
ensure that sufficient capacity exists to accommodate future growth. The City shall seek new landfill sites to
replace the Altamont and Newby Island landfills, at such time that these landfills are closed.
Implementation of Mitigation Measure UTIL-8 would serve to ensure sufficient capacity of landfill is
available for future development under Land Use Alternative A. In addition, the trend of lower per capita
solid waste volumes would continue to reduce the amount of waste disposed at landfills overall, which may
delay the estimated closure date of landfill sites, including the Newby Island Landfill facility.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
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UTIL-9 Land Use Alternative A would not be out of compliance with federal, State,
and local statues and regulations related to solid waste.
As discussed in Section 4.14.3 of this Draft EIR, the City has complied with State requirements to reduce
the volume of solid waste through recycling and reuse of solid waste. The City’s per capita disposal rate is
below the target rate established by CalRecycle. Cupertino adopted a Source Reduction and Recycling
Element (SRRE) and a Household Hazardous Waste Element (HHWE) in compliance with the California
Integrated Waste Management Act. The City has gone beyond the SRRE by implementing several programs,
including the City’s and Recology’s organics or food waste collection program and Environmental Recycling
Day events offered to residents 3 times per year by Recology. Implementation of the referenced strategies,
plans, and programs, as well as the Climate Action Plan that launched in May 2014, will enable the city to
meet the 75 percent of solid waste by the year 2020. These programs will be sufficient to ensure that future
development in Cupertino would not compromise the ability to meet or perform better than the State
mandated target.
Construction and demolition associated with future development under Land Use Alternative A would
generate significant solid waste. At least 60 percent of this waste, however, would be expected to be
diverted from landfill disposal by recycling in accordance with the City’s construction debris ordinance.
Therefore, future development would comply with applicable statutes and regulations and the impact would
be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-10 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant cumulative
impacts with respect to solid waste.
The buildout of Land Use Alternative A will increase the quantity of solid waste for disposal. Although AB
939 established a goal for all California cities to provide at least 15 years of ongoing landfill capacity, growth
from other cities in the region may exceed that which was taken into account when calculating landfill
capacity. Also, because the Newby Island Landfill facility, which takes approximately 92 percent of the City's
solid waste, is expected to close in 2025, Cupertino may eventually experience insufficient landfill capacity
to accommodate existing or increased population and employment levels.
As shown in the Chapter 4.11, Population and Housing, of this Draft EIR, projected growth in Cupertino
under Land Use Alternative A is less than that anticipated by regional projections. The 2040 buildout of Land
Use Alternative A would add 7,827 fewer residents than ABAG’s 2040 projection for Cupertino, and the
2040 buildout employment levels and housing units would also be below regional projections. Table 5.2-24
compares the 2040 buildout of Land Use Alternative A and the regional growth scenario.
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TABLE 5.2‐24 BUILDOUT AND REGIONAL GROWTH COMPARISON – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE A
ABAG Projection 2040 Buildout Difference
Residents 71,700 63,873 ‐7,827
Housing Units 24,180 23,294 ‐886
Employment 33,260 32,593 ‐667
Source: Association of Bay Area Governments, Plan Bay Area, Projections 2013, Subregional Study Area Table, Santa Clara
County; PlaceWorks, 2014.
Although implementation of existing waste reduction programs and diversion requirements discussed above
would reduce the potential for exceeding existing capacities of landfills, the potential lack of landfill capacity
for disposal of solid waste would have a significant impact. However, with incorporation of the Mitigation
Measure UTIL-8, this impact related to the potential for Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, to result in significant cumulative impacts with respect to solid
waste would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than Significant.
Energy Conservation
UTIL-11 Implementation of Land Use Alternative A, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in a substantial increase
in natural gas and electrical service demands, and would not require new
energy supply facilities and distribution infrastructure or capacity enhancing
alterations to existing facilities.
The Land Use Alternative A, upon buildout, will result in 1,040,231 square feet of additional office space,
703,431 square feet of additional commercial space, 600 additional hotel rooms, and 1,895 additional
housing units. The proposed increase in development would result in a long-term increase in energy
demand, associated primarily with the operation of lighting and space heating/cooling in the added building
space. In addition, construction activities associated with development require the use of energy (e.g.
electricity and fuel) for various purposes such as the operation of construction equipment and tools, as well
as excavation, grading, demolition, and vehicle travel.
Future new development would be constructed using energy efficient modern building materials and
construction practices. The new buildings also would use new modern appliances and equipment, and would
comply with the current CALGreen Building Code, which would require the use of recycled construction
materials, environmentally sustainable building materials, building designs that reduce the amount of energy
used in building heating and cooling systems as compared to conventionally built structures, and landscaping
that incorporates water efficient irrigation systems.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure energy conservation is
practiced in Cupertino. Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles
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of Sustainability, would require the City to incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s
planning and development system in order to improve the environment, reduce greenhouse gas emission
and meet the needs of the present community without compromising the needs of future generations. Policy
5-3, Conservation and Efficient Use of Energy Resources, would require the City to encourage the
maximum feasible conservation and efficient use of electrical power and natural gas resources for new and
existing residences, businesses, industrial and public uses. Strategy 1, Alternate Energy Sources, would
require the City to continue to ensure the ease of access to, and use of, solar energy and other alternate,
renewable energy resources for all new and significantly renovated private and public buildings through
effective policies, programs and incentives. Strategy 2, Comprehensive Energy Management Plan, would
require the City to prepare and implement a comprehensive energy management plan for all applicable
public facilities and equipment, to achieve the energy goals established in the City’s municipal Climate
Action Plan, and to embed this plan into the City’s Environmentally Preferable Procurement Policy to
ensure measures are achieved through all future procurement and construction practices. Strategy 4, Energy
Efficient Replacements, would require the City to continue to use life cycle cost analysis, to identify City
assets for replacement with more energy efficient technologies. Strategy 5, Incentive Program, would
require the City to support incentive programs that include such items as reduced permit fees for building
projects that exceed the City’s Green Building Ordinance and CalGreen, continue to promote other
incentives from the state, County and Federal Governments for improving energy efficiency and expanding
renewable energy installations by posting information regarding incentive, rebate and tax credit programs
on the City’s web site. Strategy 6, Solar Access Standards, would require the City to continue to ensure
compliance with the State of California Subdivision Map Act solar access standards in order to maximize
natural heating and cooling opportunities for future residences and businesses, and to encourage the
inclusion of additional shade trees and landscaping for energy efficiency. Strategy 8, Energy Cogeneration
Systems, would require the City to encourage the use of energy cogeneration systems through the provision
of an awareness program targeting the larger commercial and industrial users and public facilities. Strategy
9, Regulation of Building Design, would require the City to ensure designers, developers, applicants and
builders meet the City’s Green Building Ordinance and CalGreen, and encourage architects, building
designers and contractors to exceed these requirements for new projects through the provision of
incentives, to encourage either passive solar heating and/or dark plaster interior with a cover for swimming
pools, cabanas and other related accessory uses where solar access is available, to encourage the use of
renewable energy sources where feasible, and continue to offer energy audits and/or subvention programs
that also advance community adoption of alternative energy technologies. Strategy 10, Use of Discretionary
Development Permits (Use Permits), would require the City to require, as conditions of approval for new
and renovated projects, the provision of energy conservation/efficiency applications, aligned with the City’s
Green Building Ordinance and CalGreen. Strategy 11, Energy Efficient Transportation Modes, would
require the City to continue to encourage fuel-efficient transportation modes such as “clean” multi-modal
public transit, car and vanpooling, flexible work hours, safe routes to schools, and pedestrian and bicycle
paths through community education and training, infrastructure investment, and financial incentives,
including commuter benefits programs. Policy 5-4, Green Building Design, would require the City to set
standards for the design and construction of energy and resource conserving/efficient buildings (Green
Building Design). Strategy 1, “Green Building” Program, would require the City to periodically review and
revise the City’s Green Building Ordinance to ensure alignment with state CalGreen requirements for all
major private and public projects that ensure reduction in energy and water use for new development
through site selection and building design. Strategy 2, Building Energy Audits, would require the City to
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continue to offer and leverage regional partners’ programs to conduct building energy assessments for
homes, commercial, industrial and city facilities, and recommend improvements that lead to energy and
cost savings opportunities for participants.
With the implementation of these General Plan Policies and the CALGreen Building Code, significant
energy conservation and savings would be realized in future new development. Even with the energy saving
practices in place, it is possible that new electrical switches and/or transformers might be required to
handle additional loads. However, potential environmental impacts from possible new electrical
switches/transformers are not anticipated to be significant and, if necessary, would be addressed in project-
specific reviews. In addition, buildout of Land Use Alternative A would not significantly increase energy
demands in the context of the 70,000 square mile PG&E service territory for electricity and natural gas
generation, transmission and distribution. As a result, new energy supply facilities and distribution
infrastructure or capacity enhancing alterations to existing facilities would not be required. Therefore, with
consideration of the applicable regulations listed below, impacts related to energy conservation would be
less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
Federal Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007
Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005
California Building Code (Title 24, CCR)
California 2006 Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20, CCR Sections 1601 through 1608)
Governor’s Green Building Executive Order (S-20-04)
City of Cupertino General Plan, Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element
City of Cupertino Municipal Code, Chapter 16.58, Green Building Standards
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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5.2.8 RELATIONSHIP OF THE ALTERNATIVE TO THE OBJECTIVES
As discussed in Section 3.5, Project Objectives, of Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, the
primary purpose of this the proposed Project is to: 1) replenish, re-allocate, and increase citywide office,
commercial, hotel, and residential development allocations in order to plan for anticipated future growth
while, sustaining the community’s character, goals, and objectives; 2) consolidate development requests by
several property owners for amendments to the General Plan, by reviewing seven Study Areas; and 3)
provide a full range of housing to meet the needs of all segments of the city’s population.
The City has also drafted a 2040 Community Vision and Guiding Principles as part of the overall proposed
Project, which builds upon the framework of the current General Plan’s vision, goals, and guiding
principles, and reflects the community’s desires for Cupertino’s future. The proposed Project is based on the
vision for the city 1) to be a balanced community with: quiet and attractive residential neighborhoods;
exemplary parks and schools; accessible open space areas, hillsides, and creeks; and a vibrant, mixed-use
“Heart of the City;” and 2) to be safe, friendly, healthy, connected, walkable, bikeable, and inclusive for all
residents and workers, with ample places and opportunities for people to interact, recreate, innovate and
collaborate. This vision statement is included in the proposed General Plan and outlines the objectives of the
proposed Project.
Under Land Use Alternative A, the development allocation would be replenished for office, hotel, and
residential land uses as shown in Table 5.2-1. Therefore, implementation of this Alternative would not
increase citywide commercial development. Although office, hotel and residential development would be
replenished under this Alternative, the replenishment would be less than that of the proposed Project.
Conversely, implementation of Land Use Alternative A would accommodate the RHNA for the 2014-2022
planning period to allow the city to meet its fair share housing obligation of 1,064 units. Because this
Alternative would not result in the replenishment of commercial development allocation, not all of the
Project Objectives, identified in Section 5.3, Project Objectives, of Chapter 5.0, Alternatives, of this Draft
EIR, would be to the same degree of that of the proposed Project; however, as shown in Table 5-1, this
Alternative does generally meet all of the project objectives.
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5.3 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Land Use Alternative B would focus on several changes to the current framework of growth through
increased heights and residential densities, as well as increased development allocations throughout the
proposed Special Areas, including concentrated development on designated Gateways/Nodes. Land Use
Alternative B would largely continue the policies of the current General Plan, while making development
allocation and boundary changes throughout the buildout horizon year of 2040. The amended General Plan
policies for Alternative B are shown in Appendix I, Proposed General Plan Policy Amendments, of this Draft
EIR.
Table 5.3-1 shows the total built and/or approved development for 2013 conditions (“Existing”), the
current General Plan development allocations (“Remaining”), and the 2040 buildout projections for this
Land Use Alternative B.
As shown in Table 5.3-1, Land Use Alternative B would result in an increase of 2 million square feet of
additional office space, 500 additional hotel rooms, and 1,421 residential units above what is currently
planned for in the 2000-2020 General Plan, which is estimated to result in up to 8,242 additional jobs. This
Alternative assumes demolition of Vallco Mall and redistribution of the 642,257 square feet of commercial
space within the shopping center.
TABLE 5.3‐1 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION & PROJECTIONS SUMMARY
Category
Existinga
(2013)
Remaining
(No Project)
Net New
Proposed
Total In Land Use
Alternative Bb
Buildout
(2040)c
Office 8,929,774 sf 540,231 sf + 2,000,000 sf 2,540,231 sf 11,470,005 sf
Commercial 3,729,569 sf 701,413 sf + 625,335 sfd 1,343,670 sf 5,073,248 sf
Hotel 1,090 rooms 339 rooms + 500 rooms 839 rooms 1,929 rooms
Residential 21,399 units 1,895 units + 1,421 units 3,316 units 24,715 units
Population 58,302 5,571 4,208 9,749e 68,051
Jobs 27,837 3,461 8,242 11,705f 39,092
Note: sf = square feet
a. The amount of development that is built and approved in the city and the population and jobs accounted for in 2013.
b. The “remaining” (i.e. what is expected under No Project “Current General Plan” conditions) plus the “net new proposed” equals the total new buildout potential under the Land Use
Alternative B.
c. The “built/approved 2013 baseline” plus the “Land Use Alternative B” equals the total 2040 buildout projections.
d. No net new commercial is proposed. This number represents the complete demolition of the Vallco Mall.
e. Population is calculated by 3,316 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
f. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 2,540,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square feet equals 8,467 jobs; 1,343,670 square feet of
commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 2,986 jobs; and 839 hotel rooms at 0.3 jobs per room equals 252 jobs for a total of 11,705 jobs.
Source: City of Cupertino.
This Alternative focuses on how development would be concentrated along the Special Areas in order to
create more complete commercial, office and entertainment areas, and to address mid-term housing needs.
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This Alternative would continue to build upon the existing strengths of the Major Mixed-Use Special Areas
by increasing development allocation above what is remaining in the 2000-2020 General Plan.
As shown in Table 5-2, in Chapter 5, Alternatives to the Proposed Project, of this Draft EIR, Land Use
Alternative B would allocate 37 percent less office space, 37 percent fewer hotel rooms, 25 percent fewer
residential units, and would not see a change in allocation for commercial space. There would be 25 percent
fewer residential units and new population. As a result, as shown in Table 5-4, when compared to the
proposed Project at 2040 buildout out, Land Use Alternative B is projected to result in 12 percent less office
space, no change in commercial space, 21 percent fewer hotel rooms, 5 percent fewer residential units and
new residents, and 12 percent fewer jobs.
The differences between the proposed Project and the Land Use Alternative B would be incremental and
even if no action was taken, regional growth, and the associated environmental effects linked to this growth,
would continue to occur under the provisions of the current 2000-2020 General Plan.
5.3.1 OFFICE DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
The office allocation in the Heart of the City Special Area would be increased from the remaining 17,113
square feet to 1.5 million square feet, which represents an increase of 1,482,887 square feet. The Major
Employers category would be increased from the remaining 523,118 square feet to 625,000 square feet,
which represents an increase of 101,882 square feet. Under this Alternative, the other Special Areas would
also result in replenished office space allocation, which currently have no office space development
allocation remaining under the current General Plan. The Special Areas would increase office space
development allocations as follows:
Homestead: 25,000 square feet
North Vallco Park: 75,000 square feet
Heart of the City: 1,500,000 square feet
North De Anza: 200,000 square feet
South De Anza: 25,000 square feet
Other Non-Residential Mixed-Use: 10,000 square feet
Major Employers: 625,000 square feet
Bubb Road: 75,000 square feet
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood: 10,231 square feet
5.3.2 COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
Under this Alternative, the Heart of the City Special Area remaining development allocation of 695,629
square feet would be increased by 54,371 square feet and redistributed in the other Special Areas, which,
with the exception of the Monta Vista Village, currently have no commercial space development allocation
remaining under the current General Plan. The Monta Vista Village Neighborhood currently has 5,784
square feet of commercial space remaining.
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The commercial development allocation would be increased and distributed as follows under this
Alternative:
Homestead: 250,000 square feet
North Vallco Park: 100,000 square feet
Heart of the City: 750,000 square feet
North De Anza: 125,000 square feet
South De Anza: 75,000 square feet
Other Non-Residential Mixed-Use: 75,000 square feet
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood: 18,679 square feet
5.3.3 HOTEL DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
Under this Alternative, 500 new hotel units would be added to the remaining development allocation of 339
rooms for a total of 839 hotel rooms and would be distributed in the following Special Areas:
Homestead: 150 rooms
North Vallco Park: 150 rooms
Heart of the City: 439 rooms
North De Anza: 100 rooms
5.3.4 HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION
Although the existing development allocations would limit overall development, the residential unit
development allocation under this Alternative would accommodate the Regional Housing Needs Allocation
(RHNA) for the 2014–2022 planning period and allow the city to meet its fair-share housing obligation of
1,064 units. As shown in Table 5.3-1, the residential allocation under this Alternative would allow for the
construction of up to 3,361 units, which represents 1,421 units above the Cupertino’s fair-share housing
obligation. The remaining housing development allocation would be allocated throughout the city by
reducing the total number of new housing in the Bubb Road Special Area by 94 units and the South De Anza
Special Area by 29 units. Under this Alternative, new residential units would be distributed in the Special
Areas and Neighborhoods as follows:
Homestead: 400 units
North Vallco Park: 350 units
Heart of the City: 1,700 units
North De Anza: 170 units
South De Anza: 201 units
Other Non-Residential Mixed-Use: 120 units
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood: 75 units
Other Neighborhoods: 300 units
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5.3.5 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
The following section describes development standards that would be applicable to future development
under implementation of Land Use Alternative B.
Special Areas Along Major Transportation Corridors Including Gateways and
Nodes and Study Areas
In the Homestead Special Area, Study Area 3 (PG&E) and 4 (Mirapath) the maximum allowable height
would be increased from 30 feet to 45 feet and density would range between 10 dwelling units per acre
(du/ac) and 35 du/ac. In the Stelling Gateway, the maximum height would be 45 feet or 60 feet with a
retail component and density would be 35 du/ac. In the North De Anza Gateway and Study Area 1
(Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire) the maximum height would be 60 feet, or 75 feet with a retail
component, or 95 feet with retail and community benefits. The proposed density would be 35 du/ac.
The North Vallco Park Special Area and Study Area 5 (Cupertino Village) would permit heights up to 60 feet
or 75 feet with a retail component along Wolfe Road (retail not required on east side of Wolfe Road) or up
to 95 feet with retail and community benefits in the North Vallco Gateway. The proposed density would be
35 du/ac. Study Area
The Heart of the City Special Area would permit heights up to 45 feet and density would range between 25
du/ac and 35 du/ac. The South Vallco Park Gateway East and east portion of Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping
District) would allow 60 feet, or 75 feet with a retail component, and 110 feet with retail and community
benefits on the east side of Wolf Road, and the density would be 35 du/ac. The South Vallco Park Gateway
West and west portion of Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District) would permit heights up to 45 feet, 60
feet with a retail component, or 75 feet along Stevens Creek Boulevard and Wolfe Road with retail and
community benefits, and the proposed density would be 35 du/ac. The City Center Node and Study Area 2
(City Center) would permit 60 feet, 75 feet with a retail component, or 90 feet with retail and community
benefits at specific sites at the City Center Apartments and Parking Garage and Parking lot, and the
proposed density would be 25 du/ac. The North Crossroads Node and Study Area 7 (Stevens Creek Office
Center) would permit up to 45 feet, or 60 feet with a retail component, and the proposed density would
increase from 25 du/ac to 35 du/ac. The Oaks Gateway would permit 45 feet, or 60 feet with a retail
component, and the density would be 35 du/ac. The Community Recreation Node, De Anza College Node
and Civic Center Node would permit heights up to 45 feet and the density would be 25 du/ac.
The North De Anza Special Area would permit heights up to 60 feet and the permitted density would be 25
du/ac. The South De Anza Special Area would permit height up to 30 feet and the permitted density would
be increased from 15 du/ac to 25 du/ac.
Other Special Areas including Neighborhoods and Non-Residential/Mixed-Use
Special Areas
Under this Alternative, height and density would remain unchanged in the Monta Vista Village
Neighborhood and Bubb Road Special Area, as well as the other neighborhoods and non-residential areas;
therefore, height would be consistent with existing conditions, as described under Section 3.7.3, Other
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PLACEWORKS 5.3-5
Special Areas including Neighborhoods and Non-Residential/Mixed-Use Special Areas, Chapter 3, Project
Description, of this Draft EIR.
Housing Element Sites
Under this Alternative, the Housing Element Sites, as described in detail in Section 3.6.4, Housing Element
Sites, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of the Draft EIR, are proposed as follows:
Housing Element Site 1 (Shan Restaurant)
Housing Element Site 2 (Arya/Scandinavian Design)
Housing Element Site 3 (United Furniture/East of East Estates Drive)
Housing Element Site 4 (Barry Swenson)
Housing Element Site 5 (Glenbrook Apartments)
Housing Element Site 6 (The Villages Apartments)
Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property)
Housing Element Site 10 (The Hamptons)
Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except Rosebowl)
Housing Element Site 12 (Homestead Lanes and Adjacency)
Housing Element Site 13 (Loree Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza)
Housing Element Site 15 (Stevens Creek Office Center)
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds & Granite Rock)
Housing Element Site 17 (Homestead Road – IntraHealth/Office/Tennis Courts)
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 19 (Cypress Building Association & Hall Property)
The General Plan land use and Zoning designations, and height and density for each Housing Element Site
would remain the same as existing conditions with the exception of the following Housing Element Sites:
Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property): Height would increase from 45 feet to 60 feet. No
changes to density, General Plan land use or Zoning designations.
Housing Element Site 10 (The Hamptons): Height would increase from 60 feet to 75 feet. Density
would increase from 25 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) to 65 du/ac. The General Plan land use
designation would be changed from High Density (20-35 dwelling unit per gross acre [DU/Gr. Ac]) to
High Density (Greater than 35 DU/Gr. Ac) and the Zoning designation would be changed from Planned
Development with Residential (P(Res) - 70) to P(Res).
Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except Rosebowl): Height would increase from 60
feet to 110 feet in the area bounded by I-280 to the north, Vallco Parkway to the south, and Perimeter
Road to the east if future development includes a retail component and provides community benefits.
Height would not increase with the exception of the area along Stevens Creek Boulevard and N. Wolfe
Road where height will increase to 75 feet with retail development and community benefits. There will
be no change to residential density. The General Plan land use designation would be changed from
Commercial/Residential (C/R) to Commercial/Office/Residential (C/O/R) and the Zoning
designation would be changed from Planned Development with Regional Shopping (P(Regional
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Shopping) to Planned Development with Regional Shopping, Professional Office, and Residential
(P(Regional Shopping, OP, Res)) to allow for professional offices and residential uses.
Housing Element Site 12 (Homestead Lanes and Adjacency): No changes to residential density, or
General Plan land use designations. Height allowances would remain at 45 feet on the east side of
Stelling Road, however, in addition, 60 feet would be allowed with retail development. The Zoning
designation would be changed from Planned Development with General Commercial, Recreation and
Entertainment (P(CG, Rec, Ent)) to Planned Development with General Commercial and Residential
(P(CG, Res)) to allow for residential uses.
Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza): Height would increase from 45 feet to a maximum of 60 feet
with a retail component. Density would increase from 25 du/ac to 35 du/ac. No changes to General
Plan land use or Zoning designations.
Housing Element Site 15 (Stevens Creek Office Center): Height would increase from 45 feet to 60 feet
with a retail component. Residential density would increase from 25 du/ac to 35 du/ac. Zoning
Designation would be changed to General Commercial, Professional Office and Residential (P(CG, OP,
Res)). No changes to General Plan designation.
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds and Granite Rock): Density would increase from 15 du/ac to
25 du/ac. Zoning designation would change from Planned Development with General Commercial and
Residential (P(CG, Res 5-15)) to Planned Development with General Commercial and Residential
(P(CG, Res)) to allow for residential uses. No changes to height or General Plan land use designation.
Housing Element Site 17 (Homestead Road – IntraHealth/Office/Tennis Courts): Height would
increase from 30 feet to 45 feet or 60 feet with a retail component. Density would increase from 15
du/ac to 35 du/ac. Zoning designation would be changed from Planned Development with General
Commercial (P(CG)) to Planned Development with General Commercial and Residential (P(CG, Res))
to allow for residential uses. No changes to General Plan land use designation.
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center): Height would increase from 45 feet to 60 feet
with a retail component. Density would increase from 25 du/ac to 35 du/ac. Zoning designation would
be changed from Planned Development with General Commercial and Professional Office (P(CG, OP))
to Planned Development with General Commercial and Residential, (P(CG, Res)) to allow for future
mixed-use development including residential uses.
For a detailed discussion of the Housing Element Sites, including height and density, please refer to Section
3.7.4, Housing Element Sites, in Chapter 3 of this Draft EIR.
5.3.6 GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP AND ZONING ORDINANCE
AND MAP AMENDMENTS
Land Use Alternative B will also include revisions to the City’s Land Use Map and Zoning Ordinance and
Map for consistency with the General Plan, as a result of changes to Housing Element policies that are
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
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PLACEWORKS 5.3-7
required by State Law,1 or as adopted by the City Council, and by correcting inconsistencies of existing land
uses identified by the City. The Major Mixed-Use Special Areas, Study Areas, Other Special Areas including
Neighborhoods and Non-Residential/Mixed-Use Special Areas, and Housing Element Sites described in this
chapter have been identified for their appropriateness for additional commercial, office, hotel, and higher
density housing. The City would rezone and change the land use designations, densities, and height standards
for these sites to accommodate the additional land uses as described in this chapter. Under this Alternative,
the same Land Use and Zoning Ordinance and Map amendments would occur as with the proposed Project
as detailed in Section 3.7.4, Housing Element Sites, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR.
5.3.6.1 OTHER GENERAL PLAN AND ZONING CHANGES
Other changes to the General Plan text and figures, and Zoning Ordinance are proposed to include bringing
sites with inconsistent land use and zoning designations into consistency, the identification of new
neighborhood areas, a new Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services Element, the minor reformatting,
reorganization and addition of clarifying or descriptive language to the General Plan and the method in
which residential density is calculated.
General Plan Land use map and Zoning Map Conformance
The City has identified specific sites, shown on Figure 3-40, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of the Draft
EIR, that represent locations where there are inconsistencies between existing land use and the current
General Plan land use designation and/or Zoning designation for the location. Under the proposed Project,
the General Plan or the Zoning Ordinance and/or Maps will be amended to bring consistency between the
existing use and the General Plan land use and/or Zoning for the location. Table 3-22 in Chapter 3, Project
Description, lists the parcels with known inconsistencies and shows how the General Plan and Zoning
amendments under Land Use Alternative B will bring these locations into conformance with the current
General Plan. Because these locations are currently developed and the amendments are being made to
reflect the current use on the property, these amendments will not result in new development potential at
these locations.
New Neighborhoods
New neighborhood names and boundaries would be established under Land Use Alternative B. The new
neighborhood names are commonly used by the residents of Cupertino, and this process will formalize the
neighborhood names and define their boundaries on a map. No new development potential would occur as
result of the new names or boundary identification. The new neighborhood names and boundaries are shown
on Figure 3-19, Other Special Areas including Neighborhoods and Non-Residential/Mixed-Use Special
Areas and are listed in Section 3.6.3.3, Other Neighborhoods, in Chapter 3, Project Description.
1 Specific State Law includes, but is not limited to, the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, California’s Fair Employment
and Housing Act, and the State’s Housing Element law.
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Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services Element
In order to better organize the General Plan, the City has reorganized the of policies within existing
Sections (Elements) of the General Plan and relocated these policies in a newly created Section for the
purposes of consolidating policies related to Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services. The policies that
will be part of the new Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services Element are listed in Appendix I,
Proposed General Plan Policy Amendments, of this Draft EIR.
City of Cupertino Historical Register
The Seven Springs Ranch, built in 1866 and located at 11801 Dorothy Anne Way in Cupertino, is listed on
the Office of Historic Preservation Directory Listings. This site has been nominated for inclusion in the
National Register; however, it is not currently listed in either the National Register of Historic Places or the
California Register of Historical Resources. As part of the proposed Project, this site would be added to the
City’s list of Historically Significant Resources. This Cultural Resources Site is discussed in detail in Chapter
4.5, Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR and is shown on Figure 4.4-1, Cultural Resources, as Site 23.
Residential Density
In the context of planning, residential density is the amount of residential units within a given area.
Insufficient density can lead to problems in supporting neighborhood-serving retail and services, difficulties
in offering a wider range of housing options, and an inability to provide the critical mass necessary to
support public transportation. The City currently calculates residential density as “gross” density, which is
the number of units divided by the acreage of the entire area. Under Land Use Alternative B, the City would
calculate residential density as “net” density, which is the number of units divided by the acreage of
residential land. The residential density under the proposed Project as described in this chapter has be
calculated by net density.
5.3.7 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B ANALYSIS
5.3.7.1 AESTHETICS
AES-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have an adverse effect
on a scenic vista.
Future development under Land Use Alternative B would have the potential to affect scenic vistas and/or
scenic corridors if new or intensified development blocked views of areas that provide or contribute to such
vistas. Potential effects could include blocking views of a scenic vista/corridor from specific publically
accessible vantage points or the alteration of the overall scenic vista/corridor itself. Such alterations could
be positive or negative, depending on the characteristics of individual future developments and the
subjective perception of observers.
Public views of scenic corridors are considered those views as seen along a linear transportation route and
public views of scenic vistas are those views of specific scenic features. Scenic vistas are generally interpreted
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as long-range views, while scenic corridors are comprised of short-, middle-, and long-range views. As
stated in Section 4.1.1, Environmental Setting, of Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of the Draft EIR, the current
General Plan does not have designated scenic corridors or vistas. However, for this analysis, the westward
views of the foothills and ridgelines of the Santa Cruz Mountains are considered scenic vistas; and the State-
designated, an eligible State Scenic Highway segment of Interstate 280 (I-280), from Santa Clara County
line on the west and Interstate 880 (I-880) on the east, is considered a scenic corridor. The impacts to the
State-designated view corridor are discussed below under Impact AES-2.
In addition to the potential for new development under implementation of Land Use Alternative B, there
would be a number General Plan policies that could affect scenic vistas. Even so, other policies within the
General Plan, as well as provisions of the Municipal Code would continue to regulate development, thereby
preventing significant impacts to scenic vistas.
Policies 2-23 through 2-33 collectively reflect the changes to land use, development intensity, development
allocations, and Special Areas that constitute the Project Components—as described in detail in Chapter 3,
Project Description. Since the content of these particular policies is directly integrated with and reflective
of Land Use Alternative B as a whole, impact discussions for the effects of Land Use Alternative B
necessarily encompass analysis of these particular policies.
General Plan Policy 2-15, Urban Building Forms, includes minor changes, including the combination of two
previous strategies regarding building massing and height, and amended Policy 2-16, Attractive Building and
Site Design, includes a new strategy requiring the screening of utilities areas in new developments. Changes
to acceptable heights and densities, are an integral part of the City’s amended land use policies, and these
changes are included as part of the Land Use Alternative B. Therefore, the potential for physical impacts
from amended policies 2-15 and 2-16 is accounted for an addressed in the analysis of overall Land Use
Alternative B implementation, which would continue to be governed by General Plan and Municipal Code
policies related to aesthetic impacts. Additionally, the amendments to Policy 2-16, Attractive Building and
Site Design, would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new developments. Finally, as individual projects
are proposed, each would continue to be required to undergo development review that would ensure
conformance with other General Plan and Municipal Code policies regarding aesthetics, including any
applicable requirements for approval by the Design Review Committee.
Policy 2-20, Streetscape Design, would require that development or redevelopment projects consider
unique streetscape choices for different parts of Cupertino, including conforming to the Crossroad Area
Streetscape Plan in the Crossroad Area, and would establish new requirements for the selection and planting
of street trees in Cupertino.
Policies 2-88 and 5-48 would respectively serve to enhance the aesthetic quality of Cupertino by
encouraging new “demonstration gardens” and promoting the undergrounding of utility lines. Especially
with regard to Policy 5-48, these amended policies would serve to mitigate potential aesthetic impacts of
future developments under Land Use Alternative B.
As described in detail in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR,
the Project Component locations, where potential future development is expected to occur, would be
concentrated on a limited number of vacant parcels and in the form of infill/intensification on sites either
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already developed and/or underutilized, and/or in close proximity to existing residential and residential-
serving development, where future development would have a lesser impact on scenic vistas. Proposed
changes under Land Use Alternative B consist primarily of increased development intensities; however,
some Project Component locations propose height increases at restricted areas where increased height
would allow for gradual height and bulk transitions and where abrupt changes in building scale would not
occur. The proposed increases would generally occur in the North De Anza Special Area by 15 feet (45 feet
existing to 60 feet proposed), and in a few limited areas in the Heart of the City and North Vallco Park
Special Areas ranging from 30 to 50 feet.
Because of increase in proposed building heights, potential new development under Land Use Alternative B
could block the far-field views of the Santa Cruz Mountain Range and foothills from various vantage points
throughout the city. However, provided that the topography in the Project Component locations is
essentially flat; the views from street-level public viewing to the scenic resources are currently inhibited by
existing conditions such as buildings, structures, and mature trees/vegetation; the maximum heights
currently permitted limit the opportunity for these views from street-level public viewing; and the
restricted locations with maximum height increases, future development under Land Use Alternative B is
not anticipated to further obstruct public views of scenic resources from within the city. Similar views
would continue to be available between projects and over lower density areas. Considering this and the fact
that the Project Component locations are not considered destination public viewing points or are they
visible from scenic vistas, overall impacts to scenic vistas would be less than significant.
Furthermore, potential future development in all areas where increased height is being considered would be
subject to the Architectural and Site Review process, in accordance with Chapter 19.168 of the Zoning
Ordinance or would be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in the General Plan, Heart of
the City Specific Plan, or other appropriate Conceptual Plans, the Monta Vista Design Guidelines, or the
South Vallco Specific Plan discussed in Section 4.1.1.1, above. In addition, the following current General
Plan policies would ensure future development in Cupertino would conceivably reduce potential aesthetic
impacts of future development under the Land Use Alternative B:
Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-1, Focus Development in Mixed-Use Special
Areas, would require the City to, in the mixed-use Special Areas where office, commercial and residential
uses are allowed, focus higher intensity development and increased building heights where appropriate in
designated corridors, gateways, and nodes. Policy 2-15, Urban Building Forms, would require the City to
concentrate urban building forms in the mixed-use Special Areas which would ensure that higher intensity
development is limited to the major Special Areas. Policy 2-16, Attractive Building and Site Design, would
require the City to emphasize attractive building and site design during the development review process by
giving careful attention to building scale, mass and placement, architecture, materials, landscaping, and
related design considerations, including screening of equipment and loading areas. Policy 2-18, Single-
Family Residential Design, would require the City to preserve the character of residential neighborhoods by
requiring new development to be compatible with the existing neighborhood. Policy 2-21, Context of
Streetscape Landscaping, would require the City to, in public and private landscaping projects subject to
City review, select landscaping designs that reflect the development context. Policy 2-47, Hillside
Development Standards, would require the City to establish building and development standards for the
hillsides that ensure hillside protection. Policy 2-48, Previously Designated Very Low Density Semi-Rural 5-
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Acre, would call for the City to allow certain hillside properties to develop using a previous General Plan
Designation. Policy 2-51, Rural Improvement Standards in Hillside Areas, would call for the City to require
rural improvement standards in hillside areas to preserve the rural character of the hillsides. Policy 2-52,
Views for Public Facilities, would require the City to design and layout public facilities, particularly public
open spaces, so they include views of the foothills or other nearby natural features, and plan hillside
developments to minimize visual and other impacts on adjacent public open space. Policy 2-66, Historic
Sites, would require the City to have projects on Historic Sites meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standard
for Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, and Restoring Historic
Buildings and provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the
historic significance of the resource(s). Under this policy, the plaque must include the city seal, name of
resource, date it was built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the
public can view the information. Additionally, this policy requires that for public and quasi-public sites, the
City will coordinate with the property owner to allow public access of the historical site to foster public
awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-owned sites, property owners should be
encouraged, but not required, to provide access to the public. Policy 2-67, Commemorative Sites, would
call for the City to require projects on Commemorative Sites to provide a plaque, reader board and/or
other educational tool on the site to explain the historic significance of the resource. The plaque shall
include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written description and photograph and shall be
placed in a location where the public can view the information. Additionally, for public and quasi-public
sites, this policy calls for the City to coordinate with property owners to allow public access to the historical
site to foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-owned sites, property
owners should be encouraged, but not required, to provide access to the public. Policy 2-68, Community
Landmarks, would call for the City to require Projects on Landmark Sites to provide a plaque, reader board
and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the historic significance of the resource. Under this
policy, the plaque must include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written description and
photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the information. Policy 2-69,
Historic Mention/Interest Sites, would require the City to encourage agencies that have jurisdiction over
the historical resource to encourage rehabilitation of the resource and provide public access to foster public
awareness and provide educational opportunities. These are sites outside the City’s jurisdictions, but have
contributed to the City’s historic past. Policy 2-70, Incentives for Preservation of Historic Resources, would
require the City to utilize a variety of techniques to serve as incentives toward fostering the preservation
and rehabilitation of Historic Sites including: allowing flexible interpretation of zoning ordinance not
essential to public health and safety (this could include flexibility as to use, parking requirements and/or
setback requirements); using the California Building Code for rehabilitation of historic structures; tax
rebates (Mills Act or Local tax rebates); financial incentives such as grants/loans to assist rehabilitation
efforts.
Policy 2-71, Recognizing Historical Resources, would require the City to maintain an inventory of
historically significant structures and periodically updated it in order to promote awareness of these
community resources. Policy 2-74, Heritage Trees, would require the City to protect and maintain heritage
trees in a healthy state. Policy 2-88, Park Design, would require the City to design parks to utilize the
natural features and topography of the site and to keep long-term maintenance costs low. Within the
Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-9, Development near Sensitive Areas, would
require the City to encourage the clustering of new development away from sensitive areas such as riparian
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corridors, wildlife habitat and corridors, public open space preserves and ridgelines. New developments in
these areas must have a harmonious landscaping plans approved prior to development.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not substantially damage
scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings,
and historic buildings, within a State scenic highway.
As previously discussed, the segment of I-280 is not an officially designated State Scenic Highway, but is
considered to be an eligible State Scenic Highway. Future development in portions of the Homestead, North
Vallco Park, North De Anza, and Heart of the City Special Areas would be within the viewshed of I-280. The
future development in these areas would be similar to the existing conditions at these locations, with the
exception of increased building height limits. However, as described below, these Special Areas near major
transportation corridors are currently developed and the proposed land use, zoning, and development
standards changes would not represent a substantial reimagining of the character in these areas.
Homestead Special Area
North De Anza Gateway/Study Area 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire)
Study Area 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire) is coterminous with the North De Anza Gateway and is
located at the northwest corner of the North De Anza Boulevard and I-280 intersection. Under Land Use
Alternative B, future development would retain a hotel and would include a new 250-room hotel and
conference facility at the Goodyear Tire property. The General Plan designation and Zoning designation
would remain unchanged, with the exception of the Goodyear Tire property, which would change to
Planned Development General Commercial (P(CG)) to be consistent with the Cupertino Inn property. The
maximum height would range from 60 to 75 feet with a retail component or up to 95 feet if a project
includes a retail component and provides community benefits.2 This represents a substantial height increase
from the currently permitted 1 to 3 stories at this location.
As described in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4, Aesthetics, this Study Area is proximate
to existing large-scale 1 to 3 story residential developments, large format retail buildings and parking lots.
While an 8- to 10-story building could cause visual interference of the foothills, with the discretionary
Architectural and Site Approval of any development, the project could be required to feather the heights
away from the public rights of way and from adjacent residential development. In addition, the provision of
community-wide benefits, which are being proposed as a new policy in the General Plan, the additional
height could mitigate any impacts. Therefore, impacts to views of scenic resource from the I-280 viewing
corridor would be less than significant.
2 Community benefits are described under Section 3.7, Project Components, Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR.
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Study Area 3 (PG&E) and Study Area 4 (Mirapath)
Because Study Area 3 (PG&E) and Study Area 4 (Mirapath) are adjacent properties, in the case of complete
redevelopment, it is intended that both properties would be master planned in order to ensure cohesive
development. Under Land Use Alternative B, the Study Areas land use designation and zoning would be
amended to support a retail store/center in the future use. A maximum height of 30 feet would be
permitted. These amendments would not result in substantially taller development as the existing building
heights are 1 to 2 stories. Given these Study Areas are generally surrounded by single-family residential, a
commercial strip mall, and townhomes, as described in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter
4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR, and the retail/store use on these Study Areas would be a new use, with
respect to damaging or obstructing a view of a scenic resource from a scenic highway, the foreground views
would continue to be of the built urban environment and the far-distant views to the Santa Cruz Mountains
would not be obstructed; thus, impacts would be less than significant.
Stelling Gateway/ Housing Element Sites 12 (Homestead Lanes and Adjacency) and 17
(Homestead Road – IntraHealth/Office/Tennis Courts)
The Stelling Gateway is located in the western end of the Homestead Special Area and includes Housing
Element Site 12 (Homestead Lanes and Adjacency) and Housing Element Site 17 (Homestead Road –
IntraHealth/Office/Tennis Courts). Under Land Use Alternative B, building heights would range from 45
feet to 60 feet with a retail component, which, when compared to existing conditions that permit a building
height range of 30 feet on the west side of Stelling Road, to 45 feet east of Stelling Road, represents a 15-
foot increase. Under the Land Use Alternative B, there would be no changes to the current General Plan
land use designation for Housing Element Site 12, but a General Plan land use designation would be
required for Housing Element Site 17 to allow a change from 15 du/ac, to a maximum of 35 du/ac. The
Zoning designation would be amended for both sites to Planned Development with General Commercial
and Residential (P(CG, Res)) to allow for residential uses. The permitted density would remain at 35
dwelling units per acre east of Stelling but would change from 15 du/ac to 35 du/ac on the west side of
Stelling Road. These amendments would not result in substantially taller development given the location is
surrounded by 1- to 2-story developments as described above in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in
Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics. These amendments would allow for the development of one additional story for
future projects at these sites. With the discretionary Architectural and Site review of any future proposed
development, the City could require that the development feather the heights away from the public rights of
way and from adjacent residential development. Therefore, impacts to views of scenic resource from the I-
280 viewing corridor would be less than significant.
North Vallco Park Special Area
North Vallco Gateway/Study Area 5 (Cupertino Village)/Housing Element Site 10 (The
Hamptons)
There are no proposed changes to the current General Plan land use designation for the Study Area;
however, under the Land Use Alternative B, the General Plan land use designation for Housing Element Site
10 would be changed to High Density with greater than 35 dwelling unit per gross acre (High Density
(Greater than 35 DU/Gr. Ac)) and the Zoning designation for the Study Area would be changed to Planned
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Development with General Commercial, Professional Office, and Residential uses P(CG, OP, Res) to
accommodate office uses. The Zoning designation for Housing Element Site 10 would be amended to
Planned Development with Residential (P(Res)). The proposed density in this Gateway and Study Area
would be 25 dwelling units per acre with the exception of Housing Element Site 10, which would be 110
dwelling units per acre. Maximum building heights would range from 60 feet or 75 feet with a retail
component along Wolfe Road (retail not required on east side of Wolfe Road) or up to 95 feet with retail
and community benefits in the North Vallco Gateway, with 95 feet permitted on Housing Element Site 10.
Currently, the Study Area and Gateway include large surface parking lots, specialty retail stores, restaurants,
professional offices, and financial services, and Housing Element Site 10 is currently occupied with a 342-
unit multi-family housing development. The location is also surrounded by a 4-story hotel and residential
development, including both 3-story, multi-family residential and single-family houses as described above in
Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics.
While these amendments represent greater intensity and building heights (1 story to 95 feet at Study Area 5
(Cupertino Village) and North Vallco Gateway, and 60 feet to 95 feet at Housing Element Site 10), given the
surrounding land uses, and the nearby projects under construction, including the Apple Campus 2 site, the
City could, as part of its discretionary Architecture and Site Approval permit process, require buildings to
be set back from the public rights of way and adjacent residential development. Additionally, the taller
heights west of North Wolfe Road are located east of the residential development. Any views of the
mountains are currently impeded by the existing tree canopy and three-story Arioso apartment complex
from North Wolfe Road, but there will be no changes from the I-280 viewshed since the freeway is located
south of the site. On the east side of North Wolfe Road, the taller heights may marginally impede views of
the Santa Cruz mountains for the users of the Apple Campus, but not from the I-280 viewshed since the
freeway is located south of the site. Therefore, impacts to views of scenic resource from the I-280 viewing
corridor would be less than significant.
Heart of the City Special Area
South Vallco Park East and West Gateways/Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping
District)/Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except Rosebowl)
The South Vallco Park Gateways East and West include Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District) and Housing
Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except Rosebowl). These Project Component locations are
bounded by I-280 to the north. Under this Alternative, Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District) could
include a major redesign of the Vallco Shopping Mall area to create a “downtown” for Cupertino. Proposed
uses would include commercial, office, residential, public/quasi-public, and hotel. A majority of this Study
Area is also being considered as potential Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except
Rosebowl).
Under Land Use Alternative B, maximum heights in the South Vallco Gateway West would be 45 feet, 60
feet with a retail component, or 75 feet along Stevens Creek Boulevard and Wolfe Road with retail and
community benefits. In South Vallco Gateway East, the maximum heights would be 60 feet, or 75 feet with a
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retail component, and 110 feet with retail and community benefits on the east side of Wolf Road, with the
exception of the Rosebowl mixed-use development site currently under construction.3 The Zoning
designations would be amended to Planned Development, Regional Shopping, Professional Office, and
Residential (P(Regional Shopping, OP, Res)) to allow for office and residential uses. Further, the General
Plan designations would be changed to Commercial/Office/Residential (C/O/R) to allow for office uses in
addition to commercial and residential uses, which are the existing designations. No changes would be made
to the residential density.
This Study Area and Housing Element Site are considered the city’s regional shopping district and consists of
many retail stores and restaurants. As described above in Section 4.1.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter
4.1, Aesthetics, the Vallco Shopping District is surrounded with commercial and industrial uses, as well as
some residential neighborhoods further to the west away from Stevens Creek Boulevard. Therefore, future
development could allow taller buildings to be constructed, given the existing range in heights of 1-story to
5-stories would be amended to allow up to 110 feet under certain conditions on a portion of the Site. The
City could, in conjunction with its discretionary permit process, Architectural and Site Approval, require
that the development be stepped back from public rights of way. Additionally, it is assumed that such
development (where heights taller than the base height are being proposed) would maintain a 1:1 ratio from
low density single family residential development. In addition, the General Plan Amendments include a
policy that states that the tallest heights proposed with the Project would not be considered and/or
approved by the City unless a retail component, thereby generating sales tax revenue to the City, and
substantial community wide benefits, as direct benefits to the public above and beyond the project
obligations, are included as part of a Development Agreement.
Because of the existing site conditions, and because the surrounding area has large scale retail and industrial
uses, impacts to the views of scenic resource from the I-280 viewing corridor would be less than
significant.
North De Anza Special Area
Under Land Use Alternative B, the North De Anza Special Area would remain an office area consisting of
mid-rise buildings. This Special Area is a major north/south connector that includes many office and
commercial uses. Future development permitted in this Special Area would result in increased office,
commercial, and hotel allocations, and increased residential units, with no changes to the current permitted
density and an increase in the permitted building heights from 45 feet to 60 feet. This increase in height
could allow approximately two additional floors to be constructed in this area, allowing buildings
approximately 4-5 stories in height to be constructed. This area has mainly 2-3 story office buildings. In
addition to the heavy tree canopy and the large landscape easement required from De Anza Boulevard, the
impact to views from the public right of way would not be substantial. Additionally, the City’s discretionary
review process, Architectural and Site Approval, could ensure that the buildings have adequate setback from
residential development. The analysis also assumes that any development would provide appropriate buffers
and/or height transitions for buildings adjacent to low-density residential development.
3 Community benefits are described in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, under Section 3.7.
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Because this Special Area is currently comprised of mid-rise office buildings, Land Use Alternative B would
not represent a substantial change in the visual character even with the increase in building heights as
potential new development would be dispersed throughout the overall Special Area and thus would not
form a uniform wall that could potentially obstruct views from the I-280 viewshed. Accordingly, potential
future development would not damage a scenic resource or obstruct a view of a scenic resource from the I-
280 viewshed, the foreground views would continue to be of the built urban environment and the far-
distant views to the Santa Cruz Mountains would remain; thus, and impacts would be less than significant.
Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property)
Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property), which was built on in 1975, currently has light industrial
(research and office) uses with a large amount of surface parking. There would be no changes to the
designation, zoning, or density on this housing Site. Under Land Use Alternative B, there would be a 15-foot
increase (45 feet existing to 60 feet proposed) in building height; however, given this Site’s proximity to
existing large-scale residential developments and large format office buildings and parking lots along I-280,
the potential increase in building height would not damage or obstruct a view of a scenic resource from the
I-280 viewshed. The foreground views would continue to be of the built urban environment and the far-
distant views to the Santa Cruz Mountains would remain; thus, impacts would be less than significant.
Housing Element Site 6 (The Villages Apartments)
Housing Element Site 6 (The Villages Apartments) is not located within a Special Area; however, it will be
located in the Garden Gate Planning Area and is situated on the south side of I-280 south of the Homestead
Special area and west of the North De Anza Special Area and Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property).
Under Land Use Alternative B, there would be a 15-foot increase (45 feet existing to 60 feet proposed) in
building height; however, given this site’s proximity to existing large-scale residential developments and
large format office buildings and parking lots along I-280, the potential increase in building height would
not damage or obstruct a view of a scenic resource from the I-208 viewshed. The foreground views would
continue to be of the built urban environment and the far-distant views to the Santa Cruz Mountains would
remain; thus, impacts would be less than significant.
Summary
As described above, the land use or intensity changes do not represent a substantial reimagining of the
character of the Project Component locations in the I-280 viewshed given the existing viewshed within this
area is largely urbanized and built out. The potential future development under Land Use Alternative B
would primarily involve gradual changes in development intensity along the I-280 viewshed, similar to
existing buildings, albeit with increased building height potential. New and/or intensified uses in the I-280
viewshed, as result of Land Use Alternative B, would be dispersed within the Special Areas near major
transportation corridors discussed here, namely Heart of the City, North De Anza, Vallco Park North, South
De Anza, and Homestead Special Areas, and would not fully obstruct views of far-field scenic resources (e.g.
Santa Cruz Mountains) from I-280.
As discussed under impact AES 1, above, Policies 2-23 through 2-33 are analyzed as an integral, inseparable
component of Land Use Alternative B, and Policies 2-15, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, 2-82, 2-88, and 7-4 under Land
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-17
Use Alternative B would not cause adverse physical changes that could create aesthetic impacts in
Cupertino. Individual developments would continue to be subject to General Plan policies and Municipal
Code provisions related to aesthetics, including potential project-level design review requirements.
Moreover, certain policy changes would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new and existing
developments. Therefore, the policy amendments under Land Use Alternative B would not result in impacts
under this threshold of significance.
Furthermore, potential future development where increases in height are requested would be subject to the
Architectural and Site Review process, in accordance with Chapter 19.168 of the Zoning Ordinance. Future
development would also be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in the Heart of the City
Specific Plan the Vallco Specific Plan, and other Conceptual Plans as described above in Section 4.1.1.1,
Environmental Setting, of Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics and the General Plan policies outlined in impact
discussion AES-1, that limit the height and bulk of buildings. Accordingly, impacts related to scenic resources
in the I-280 viewshed would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not substantially degrade
the existing visual character or quality of the Site and its surroundings.
The Project Component locations are concentrated on areas either already developed and/or underutilized,
and/or in close proximity to existing residential and residential-serving development. Future building form
and massing may be greater than existing conditions, but would not necessarily degrade the existing
surrounding character.
Implementation of this Alternative would allow continued development and redevelopment throughout the
city. As discussed above, future development in the Homestead Special Area, North Vallco Park Special Area,
the North De Anza Special Area and Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property) and the South Vallco Park
West Gateway and South Vallco Park West Gateway in the Heart of the City Special Area, would not result in
a substantial change to the existing visual character of the Site or its surroundings. Potential impacts to
visual character from future development on the remaining Project Component locations under Land Use
Alternative B are discussed below.
Heart of the City Special Area
Oaks Gateway/Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)
The Oaks Gateway is coterminous with Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center) located on
the north side of Stevens Creek Boulevard between State Route 85 (SR 85) and Mary Avenue. Under Land
Use Alternative B, the permitted density would increase to 35 du/ac and building heights would range from
45 feet to 60 feet with a retail component. Because this Project Component location is within the existing
1-story Oaks Shopping Center, which currently has entitlements for a mixed-use office/commercial
building and a hotel which expire in September 2014, and is surrounded by urban land uses and SR 85 to
the west, future development permitted under Land Use Alternative B would not adversely impact the
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-18 JUNE 18, 2014
visual character of the Site or its surroundings. Thus, impacts from new development to the visual character
or quality of the site or surrounding areas would be less than significant.
North Crossroads Node/Study Area 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center)/Housing Element
Sites 14 (Marina Plaza) and 15 (Stevens Creek Office Center)
The North Crossroads Gateway includes Study Area 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center), and Housing Element
Sites 14 (Marina Plaza) and 15 (Stevens Creek Office Center), located along Stevens Creek Boulevard, a
major commercial corridor that currently houses major retailers in big-box buildings. A new 16,000-square
foot retail project (Saich Way Station) is also scheduled for construction in Spring/Summer 2014. Other
properties near these Project Component locations include large, 1- to 2-story buildings. The proposed
density at this location would be 35 du/ac and building heights would range from 45 feet to 60 feet, with 60
feet only allowed with a retail component.
Under Land Use Alternative B, development within Study Area 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center), which is
coterminous with Housing Element Site 15 (Stevens Creek Office Center), could include new hotel,
commercial, and residential mixed-use development with a maximum height of 45 feet, or up to 60 feet if a
project includes a retail component. Zoning Designation would be changed to General Commercial,
Professional Office and Residential (P(CG, OP, Res)). No changes to General Plan designation.
Under Land Use Alternative B, there would be no changes to the General Plan land use designation or
Zoning at Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza) and the permitted density would increase to 35 du/ac
and the maximum height would be 45 feet, or 60 feet with a retail component.
Because the area is largely built out and within one of the major commercial areas in the city, and is
surrounded by big-box development with a dense urban character, new development on these Sites would
not degrade the visual character of the Site or the area; thus, impacts would be less than significant.
City Center Node/Study Area 2 (City Center)
The City Center Node includes Study Area 2 (City Center). The proposed density at this Node would be 25
dwelling units per acre and the maximum height would range from 60 to 75 feet with a retail component,
or up to 90 feet if a project includes a retail component and provides community benefits.4 These heights
would generally be the same as that of the overall Node. For the portion of this Node designated as Study
Area 2 (City Center), a new 415,000-square-foot office building along with the addition of four levels to an
existing aboveground garage could be developed. Residential density would increase from 25 du/ac to 35
du/ac.
Because this Project Component location is currently developed with mixed-use development offering
residential, office, and commercial space, and is surrounded by higher density uses ranging from 1- to 8-
story buildings, future development permitted under Land Use Alternative B would not adversely impact
the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
4 Community benefits are described in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, under Section 3.7.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-19
Housing Element Site 1 (Shan Restaurant)
Under Land Use Alternative B, there would be no changes to building height; therefore, future development
permitted under Land Use Alternative B would not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its
surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
Other Housing Element Sites
Under Land Use Alternative B there would be no changes to the General Plan land use designation or
zoning at Housing Element Sites 2 (Arya/Scandinavian Design), 3 (United Furniture/East of East Estates
Drive), 4 (Barry Swenson), 5 (Glenbrook Apartments), 13 (Loree Shopping Center) and 19 (Cypress
Building Association & Hall Property); thus impacts from future development permitted under Land Use
Alternative B would not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts
would be less than significant.
South De Anza Special Area
Under Land Use Alternative B, the South De Anza Special Area would remain a general commercial area
south of Stevens Creek Boulevard. This Special Area would allow in increased office and commercial,
allocations, with an increase in the density from 5 to 15 dwelling units per acre to 25 dwelling units per
acre, but no height increases would occur and the land uses would remain the same; thus, future
development permitted under Land Use Alternative B would not adversely impact the visual character of
the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds and Granite Rock)
Under Land Use Alternative B, there would be no changes to the General Plan land use designation; but no
height increases would be occur and the land uses would generally remain the same; thus, future
development permitted under Land Use Alternative B would not adversely impact the visual character of
the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than significant.
Other Special Areas including Neighborhoods and Non-Residential/Mixed-Use Special
Areas
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood
Under Land Use Alternative B, one additional unit would be permitted in the Monta Vista Village
Neighborhood. The only change in land use designation would occur in the area on either side of Pasadena
Avenue between Granada Avenue and Olive Avenue. The land use designation would change to 10 to 15
dwelling units per acre to allow the existing number of units currently existing on the site to be replaced.
This change reflects the existing number of units on properties in that area. This change would allow
property owners in that area to replace the same number of units on the site. Additional development
allocation in this Neighborhood includes an increase of 10,231 square feet for office, and 18,679 square feet
(12,895 square feet net increase) for commercial uses. In order to be consistent with the change in the
density of the area discussed above, the zoning designation would also be changed to Planned Residential
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-20 JUNE 18, 2014
with a density of 10 to 15 units per acre. Because the land uses would remain the same and there would be
no increase in building height limits, future development permitted under Land Use Alternative B would
not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus impacts would be less than
significant.
Bubb Road Special Area
Under Land Use Alternative B, the Bubb Road Special Area would remain at 20 dwelling units per acre, but
no new residential units would be permitted in this area because the existing 94-unit residential allocation
would be allocated to other areas of the city more appropriate for residential development.5 Additional
development allocation in this Special Area includes 70,000 square feet for office uses. There are no
proposed General Plan land use designations or Zoning designation changes for this Special Area under Land
Use Alternative B. Because the land uses would remain the same and there would be no increase in building
height limits, future development permitted under Land Use Alternative B would not adversely impact the
visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus, impacts would be less than significant.
Other Neighborhoods
Under Land Use Alternative B, an additional 59 residential units would be permitted in the Zoning
designations. The existing density and height standards would remain the same under Land Use Alternative
B. There are no proposed General Plan land use designations or Zoning designation changes for the Other
Neighborhoods under Land Use Alternative B. Because the land uses would remain the same and there
would be no increase in building height limits, future development permitted under Land Use Alternative B
would not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus, impacts would be less
than significant.
Other Non-Residential Mixed-Use Special Areas
Under Land Use Alternative B, a maximum of 10,000 square feet of office uses and 75,000 square feet of
commercial uses would be permitted throughout the locations that are comprised of existing mixed-use
office and commercial properties distributed throughout the city as discussed under Section 4.1.1.2,
Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics, of this Draft EIR. Furthermore, 50 additional residential
units, for a total of 120 residential units, would be permitted. Because the land uses would remain the same
and there would be no increase in building height limits, future development permitted under Land Use
Alternative B would not adversely impact the visual character of the Site or its surroundings; thus, impacts
would be less than significant.
5 As shown in Table 3-2, Buildout Summary – All Project Components Development Allocation, Chapter 3, Project Description, of
this Draft EIR, the remaining total residential allocation is 479 units throughout the Special Centers/Other Areas and the project proposes 521
units for a difference of 42 additional residential units in the Special Centers/Other Areas under Land Use Alternative B. This results from 50
proposed unit in the Other Commercial area plus 27 proposed units in the Monta Vista Neighborhood Center area plus 59 proposed units in the
Other Neighborhood area for a total of 136 proposed units; 136 proposed units minus the 94 currently permitted in the Bubb Road area equals
42 new units in the Special Centers/Other Areas.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-21
General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites
Under Land Use Alternative B, the City-identified sites, shown on Figure 3-40, that represent locations
where there are inconsistencies between existing land use and the General Plan land use designation and/or
Zoning designation for the location, would not result in changes to the character of the existing Site or its
surroundings. Under Land Use Alternative B, the General Plan or the Zoning Ordinance and/or Maps will
be amended to bring consistency between the existing use and the General Plan land use and/or Zoning for
the location. Thus, no impact would occur.
Summary
As described above, potential future development under Land Use Alternative B would create a slight shift
in uses and involve notable changes in building intensity and height in limited areas of some Project
Components. However, given the existing commercial, industrial, and residential uses surrounding Project
Component locations, gradual development of future projects would not substantially degrade the existing
visual character or quality of the sites and their surroundings.
As discussed under Impact AES-1, above, Policies 2-23 through 2-33 are analyzed as an integral, inseparable
component of Land Use Alternative B, and amended policies 2-15, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, 2-82, 2-88, and 7-4
under Land Use Alternative B would not cause adverse physical changes that could create aesthetic impacts
in Cupertino. Individual developments would continue to be subject to General Plan policies and Municipal
Code provisions related to aesthetics, including potential project-level design review requirements.
Moreover, certain policy changes would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new and existing
developments. Therefore, the policy amendments under Land Use Alternative B would not result in impacts
under this threshold of significance.
Furthermore, potential future development would, in all the areas where additional height is allowed, be
subject to the City’s discretionary review processes, including the Development Permit and Architectural
and Site Approval Review, in accordance with Chapter 19.168 of the Zoning Ordinance. Future
development would also would be required to comply with Design Standards outlined in the Heart of the
City Specific Plan, the Vallco Master Plan, and the Monta Vista Design Guidelines and other Conceptual
Plans as described in Section 4.1.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.1, Aesthetics and the General
Plan policies outlined in impact discussion AES-1, would ensure that the bulk, mass, height, and
architectural character of new development are compatible with surrounding uses. Thus, overall impacts
would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-22 JUNE 18, 2014
AES-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not create a new source
of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime
views in the area.
Nighttime illumination and glare impacts are the effects of a project’s exterior lighting upon adjoining uses
and areas. Light and glare impacts are determined through a comparison of the existing light sources with
the proposed lighting plan or policies.
Currently, the Project Study Area contains many existing sources of nighttime illumination. These include
street and parking area lights, security lighting, and exterior lighting on existing residential, commercial,
and institutional buildings. Additional onsite light and glare is caused by surrounding land uses and traffic on
SR 85 and I-280.
As discussed under impact AES 1, above, Policies 2-23 through 2-33 are analyzed as an integral, inseparable
component of Land Use Alternative B, and amended policies 2-15, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, 2-82, 2-88, and 7-4
under Land Use Alternative B would not cause adverse physical changes that could create aesthetic impacts
in Cupertino. Individual developments would continue to be subject to General Plan policies and Municipal
Code provisions related to aesthetics, including potential project-level design review requirements.
Moreover, certain policy changes would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new and existing
developments. Therefore, the policy amendments under Land Use Alternative B would not result in impacts
under this threshold of significance.
The Land Use Alternative B would modify land uses, zoning, and density, which in turn would intensify
related lighting sources. In addition to new building, security, and lighting for parking areas, buildout of the
Project Study Area would also include lighting aimed at properly illuminating the Project Component
locations. Because Land Use Alternative B allows higher intensity development in most of the Project Study
Area, its implementation would likely result in larger buildings with more exterior glazing (i.e. windows
and doors) that could result in new sources of glare. Despite the new and expanded sources of nighttime
illumination and glare, Land Use Alternative B is not expected to generate a substantial increase in light and
glare.
Besides general guidelines that require lighting that is context sensitive in style and intensity, new
developments would also have to comply with the General Plan policies and Municipal Code provisions that
ensure new land uses do not generate excessive light levels. The City’s General Plan policies also require
reducing light and glare spillover from future development to surrounding land uses by buffering new
development with landscaping and trees. The preservation of mature trees with substantial tree canopies
would diffuse the overall amount of light generated by new development and glare generated by windows of
multistory buildings.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-23
Furthermore, because the Project Component locations and surrounding area are largely developed, the
lighting associated with Land Use Alternative B would not substantially increase nighttime light and glare
within the Project Study Area or its surroundings. Therefore, impacts relating to light and glare would be
less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AES-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to aesthetics.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative B within the Cupertino city boundary
and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG). The
cumulative setting for visual impacts includes potential future development under the proposed General Pan
combined with effects of development on lands adjacent to the city within Los Altos and Sunnyvale to the
north, Santa Clara and San Jose to the east, and Saratoga to the south, and the unincorporated areas of Santa
Clara County to the west and south.
Significant impacts, including those associated with scenic resources, visual character, and increased light
and glare would generally be site-specific and would not contribute to cumulative impacts after
implementation of the General Plan policies and the provisions stated in the Municipal Code. The proposed
heights in some areas of this Alternative would, within the designated growth areas, drastically alter the
City’s vertical landscape and urban form over time, as new development is proposed.
Because of the developed nature of the Project Study Area, future development under the General Plan
Amendment, Housing Element Update, and associated Rezoning, in combination with other new
development, would not negatively impact the visual character of the City. Furthermore, Land Use
Alternative B would not constitute a significant adverse impact because redevelopment of the area is also
anticipated in the current specific plans and the City’s General Plan policies.
As discussed under Impact AES-1, above, Policies 2-23 through 2-33 are analyzed as an integral, inseparable
component of Land Use Alternative B, and amended Policies 2-15, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, 2-82, 2-88, and 7-4
under Land Use Alternative B would not cause adverse physical changes that could create aesthetic impacts
in Cupertino. Individual developments would continue to be subject to General Plan policies and Municipal
Code provisions related to aesthetics, including potential project-level design review requirements.
Moreover, certain policy changes would serve to reduce aesthetic impacts from new and existing
developments. Therefore, the policy amendments under Land Use Alternative B would not result in
cumulative impacts to aesthetics.
Moreover, as part of the approval process, potential new development under Land Use Alternative B would
be subject to environmental review and architectural and site design review, to ensure that the development
is aesthetically pleasing and compatible with adjoining land uses. With the development review mechanisms
in place, approved future development under Land Use Alternative B is not anticipated to create substantial
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-24 JUNE 18, 2014
impacts to visual resources. Therefore, Land Use Alternative B would result in a cumulatively less-than-
significant contribution to aesthetic impacts.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.3.7.2 AIR QUALITY
AQ-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not conflict with or
obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan.
2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan
The current Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) is the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. The primary goals
of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan are to attain the State and Federal AAQS, reduce population exposure
and protect public health in the Bay Area, and reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and protect the
climate. Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) considers the Plan consistent with the
AQMP in accordance with the following:
Attain Air Quality Standards
BAAQMD’s 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan strategy is based on regional population and employment
projections within the Bay Area compiled by ABAG. Demographic trends incorporated into the Plan Bay
Area determine vehicle miles traveled (VMT) within the Bay Area, which BAAQMD utilizes to forecast
future air quality trends. The San Francisco Bay Area Air Bain (SFBAAB) is currently designated a
nonattainment area for Ozone (O3), fine inhalable particulate matter (PM2.5), and coarse inhalable
particulate matter (PM10; State Ambient Air Quality Standards (AAQS) only). As discussed in Chapter 4.11,
Population and Housing, of this Draft EIR, the growth projections for the City of Cupertino would exceed
the employment projections identified by ABAG. ABAG forecasts the population in Cupertino could grow to
71,700 by 2040.6 The buildout projections resulting from future development under Land Use Alternative B
estimates that the residential population could grow to 68,051 by 2040. Therefore, additional residential
population resulting from implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not exceed regional projections
(3,649 fewer residents). With respect to employment, ABAG forecasts 33,260 employees in the City of
Cupertino in 2040.7 Buildout of Land Use Alternative B would exceed the regional projections by 5,832
employees. However, growth under Land Use Alternative B would come incrementally over a period of
approximately 26 years and would be guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of
the principal goals and objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area. Therefore,
while growth anticipated under Land Use Alternative could exceed regional growth projections for
Cupertino by 5,832 employees, this additional growth would be consistent with the regional planning
objectives established for the Bay Area. Consequently, emissions within the City of Cupertino are included
in BAAQMD’s projections, and future development in the City of Cupertino through the Land Use
6 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014, Plan Bay Area Projections 2013.
7 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014, Plan Bay Area Projections 2013.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-25
Alternative B horizon year 2040 would not hinder BAAQMD’s ability to attain the California or National
AAQS. Accordingly, impacts would be less than significant.
Reduce Population Exposure and Protect Public Health
The City of Cupertino is already largely developed. Future growth under Land Use Alternative B would be
accommodated through redevelopment of infill sites. As identified in the discussion of community risk and
hazards (see Impact AQ-4 below), new sensitive land uses could be proximate to major sources of TACs, and
new industrial/commercial land uses could generate an increase in Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs).
Adherence to BAAQMD regulations would ensure new sources of TACs do not expose populations to
significant health risk; however, siting of land uses proximate to major sources of air pollution is outside the
control of BAAQMD. These impacts are addressed under Impact AQ-4, below. Implementation of current
and amended General Plan policies, and strategies, and mitigation to reduce community risk and hazards
listed in AQ-4 below would ensure these impacts are less than significant.
Reduce GHG Emissions and Protect the Climate
The GHG emissions impacts of Land Use Alternative B are discussed in Chapter 4.6, Greenhouse Gas
Emissions, of this Draft EIR. Goals and policies have been incorporated within Land Use Alternative B, as
identified in Chapter 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, to reduce VMT and associated GHG emissions. In
addition, the City of Cupertino is also preparing a Climate Action Plan (CAP) to reduce community-wide
GHG emissions. The City’s CAP would identify GHG reduction measures for community-wide operations.
The current and amended General Plan policies and strategies would also reduce GHG emissions, as
described in more detail in Chapter 4.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, of this Draft EIR. Future development
under the Land Use Alterative B would be required to adhere to statewide measures that have been adopted
to achieve the GHG reduction targets of Assembly Bill 32. In addition, the Land Use Alterative B is
consistent with regional strategies for infill development identified by the MTC/ABAG in the Plan Bay Area.
Consequently, Land Use Alternative B is consistent with the goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan to
reduce GHG emissions and protect the climate. As identified above, Land Use Alternative B would support
the goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. New policies would be introduced as part of Land Use
Alternative B to minimize impacts. Impacts would be less than significant.
Include Applicable Control Measures from the AQMP
Table 5.3-2 identifies the control measures included in the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan, and, as shown,
implementation of Land Use Alternative B goals, policies, and actions in Table 5.3-2 would ensure that Land
Use Alternative B would be consistent with the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan and that the impacts due to
inconsistency would be less than significant.
Disrupt or Hinder Implementation of any AQMP Control Measures
Table 5.3-2 identifies the control measures included in the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. As identified in the
table, Land Use Alternative B would not hinder BAAQMD from implementing the control measures in the
2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. Impacts are less than significant.
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s
,
Ov
e
n
s
,
Ki
l
n
s
SS
M
14
– Gl
a
s
s
Fu
r
n
a
c
e
s
SS
M
15
– Gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
Ga
s
e
s
in
Pe
r
m
i
t
t
i
n
g
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
SS
M
16
– Re
v
i
s
e
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
2,
Ru
l
e
2:
Ne
w
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
SS
M
17
– Re
v
i
s
e
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
2,
Ru
l
e
5 Ne
w
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
fo
r
Ai
r
To
x
i
c
s
SS
M
18
– Re
v
i
s
e
Ai
r
To
x
i
c
s
“H
o
t
Sp
o
t
”
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
St
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ar
e
so
u
r
c
e
s
regulated directly by
BA
A
Q
M
D
.
To
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
control measures, BAAQMD
ad
o
p
t
s
/
r
e
v
i
s
e
s
ru
l
e
s
or
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
control measures and reduce
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
so
u
r
c
e
s
.
Be
c
a
u
s
e
BAAQMD is the implementing
ag
e
n
c
y
,
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
so
u
r
c
e
s
of
st
a
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
an
d
ar
e
a
sources in the City would
be
re
q
u
i
r
e
d
to
co
m
p
l
y
wi
t
h
th
e
s
e
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
in
the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air
Pl
a
n
.
Mo
b
i
l
e
So
u
r
c
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
MS
M
A‐1 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Cl
e
a
n
,
fu
e
l
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Li
g
h
t
& Me
d
i
u
m
‐Du
t
y
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
MS
M
A‐2 – Ze
r
o
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
an
d
Pl
u
g
‐in
Hy
b
r
i
d
s
MS
M
A‐3 – Gr
e
e
n
Fl
e
e
t
s
(L
i
g
h
t
Me
d
i
u
m
& He
a
v
y
‐Du
t
y
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
)
MS
M
A‐4 – Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
or
Re
p
a
i
r
of
Hi
g
h
Em
i
t
t
i
n
g
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
MS
M
B‐1 – HD
V
Fl
e
e
t
Mo
d
e
r
n
i
z
a
t
i
o
n
MS
M
B‐2 – Lo
w
NO
x Re
t
r
o
f
i
t
s
fo
r
In
‐Us
e
En
g
i
n
e
s
MS
M
B‐3 – Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Dr
i
v
e
Tr
a
i
n
s
MS
M
C‐1 – Co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
an
d
Fa
r
m
i
n
g
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
MS
M
C‐2 – La
w
n
& Ga
r
d
e
n
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
MS
M
C‐3 – Re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Ve
s
s
e
l
s
Mo
b
i
l
e
So
u
r
c
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
re
d
u
c
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
by accelerating the
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
of
ol
d
e
r
,
di
r
t
i
e
r
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
an
d
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
,
through programs such as the
BA
A
Q
M
D
’
s
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
Bu
y
‐Ba
c
k
an
d
Sm
o
k
i
n
g
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
,
and promoting
ad
v
a
n
c
e
d
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
y
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
th
a
t
re
d
u
c
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
The implementation of these
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
re
l
y
he
a
v
i
l
y
up
o
n
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
,
su
c
h
as the Carl Moyer Program
an
d
th
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Fu
n
d
fo
r
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
,
to
ac
h
i
e
v
e
voluntary emission reductions
in
ad
v
a
n
c
e
of
,
or
in
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
to
,
CA
R
B
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
CA
R
B
has new regulations that
re
q
u
i
r
e
th
e
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
or
re
t
r
o
f
i
t
of
on
‐ro
a
d
tr
u
c
k
s
,
construction equipment, and
ot
h
e
r
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
th
a
t
is
di
e
s
e
l
po
w
e
r
e
d
.
La
n
d
Use Alternative B would not
hi
n
d
e
r
th
e
ab
i
l
i
t
y
of
BA
A
Q
M
D
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
s
e
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
programs.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
TC
M
A‐1 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Lo
c
a
l
an
d
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Ra
i
l
Se
r
v
i
c
e
TC
M
A‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Lo
c
a
l
an
d
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Ra
i
l
Se
r
v
i
c
e
TC
M
B‐1 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Fr
e
e
w
a
y
Pe
r
f
o
r
m
a
n
c
e
In
i
t
i
a
t
i
v
e
TC
M
B‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
Us
e
TC
M
B‐3 – Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Ex
p
r
e
s
s
La
n
d
Ne
t
w
o
r
k
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
(T
C
M
)
ar
e
st
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
to reduce vehicle trips,
ve
h
i
c
l
e
us
e
,
VM
T
,
ve
h
i
c
l
e
id
l
i
n
g
,
or
tr
a
f
f
i
c
co
n
g
e
s
t
i
o
n
fo
r
the purpose of reducing
mo
t
o
r
ve
h
i
c
l
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
Wh
i
l
e
mo
s
t
of
th
e
TC
M
s
ar
e
implemented at the regional
le
v
e
l
—
t
h
a
t
is
,
by
th
e
MT
C
or
Ca
l
t
r
a
n
s
—
t
h
e
r
e
ar
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
for which the 2010 Bay
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
re
l
i
e
s
up
o
n
lo
c
a
l
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
to
as
s
i
s
t
with implementation.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-27
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
TC
M
B‐4 – Go
o
d
s
Mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
C‐1 – Su
p
p
o
r
t
Vo
l
u
n
t
a
r
y
Em
p
l
o
y
e
r
‐Ba
s
e
d
Tr
i
p
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
TC
M
C‐2 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Sa
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
to
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
an
d
Sa
f
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
to
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
TC
M
C‐3 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Ri
d
e
s
h
a
r
e
Se
r
v
i
c
e
an
d
In
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
TC
M
C‐4 – Co
n
d
u
c
t
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ou
t
r
e
a
c
h
an
d
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
TC
M
C‐5 – Pr
o
m
o
t
e
Sm
a
r
t
Dr
i
v
i
n
g
/
S
p
e
e
d
Mo
d
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
TC
M
D‐1 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Ac
c
e
s
s
an
d
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
TC
M
D‐2 – Im
p
r
o
v
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ac
c
e
s
s
an
d
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
TC
M
D‐3 – Su
p
p
o
r
t
Lo
c
a
l
La
n
d
Us
e
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
E‐1 – Va
l
u
e
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
St
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
TC
M
E‐2 Pa
r
k
i
n
g
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
an
d
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
TC
M
E‐3 – Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
i
c
i
n
g
Re
f
o
r
m
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
B in
c
l
u
d
e
s
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
r
a
t
e
g
i
e
s
related to transportation and
la
n
d
us
e
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
as
s
i
s
t
BA
A
Q
M
D
in
me
e
t
i
n
g
th
e
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
goals of the 2010 Bay
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
:
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐1:
Fo
c
u
s
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
in
Mi
x
e
d
‐Us
e
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Areas. In the mixed‐use
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
(s
h
o
w
n
in
Fi
g
u
r
e
2‐B)
wh
e
r
e
of
f
i
c
e
,
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
and residential uses
ar
e
al
l
o
w
e
d
,
fo
c
u
s
hi
g
h
e
r
in
t
e
n
s
i
t
y
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
an
d
increased building heights
wh
e
r
e
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
in
de
s
i
g
n
a
t
e
d
co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
,
ga
t
e
w
a
y
s
,
and nodes.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐2:
Co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
Be
t
w
e
e
n
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
,
Em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
Centers and the
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
st
r
o
n
g
co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
be
t
w
e
e
n
th
e
mixed‐use Special Areas,
em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
ce
n
t
e
r
s
an
d
th
e
su
r
r
o
u
n
d
i
n
g
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
Co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
En
h
a
n
c
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
and bicycle
co
n
n
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
th
e
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
s
an
d
employment centers to
su
r
r
o
u
n
d
i
n
g
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ac
c
e
s
s
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
paths through new and
re
d
e
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
to
en
h
a
n
c
e
pu
b
l
i
c
ac
c
e
s
s
to
and through the
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐19
:
Co
m
p
a
t
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
of
Lo
t
Si
z
e
s
.
En
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
zoning, subdivision and lot line
ad
j
u
s
t
m
e
n
t
re
q
u
e
s
t
s
re
l
a
t
e
d
to
lo
t
si
z
e
or
lo
t
de
s
i
g
n
consider the need to
pr
e
s
e
r
v
e
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
lo
t
pa
t
t
e
r
n
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Mi
n
i
m
u
m
Lo
t
Si
z
e
.
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
mi
n
i
m
u
m
lot size if the proposed new
lo
t
si
z
e
is
sm
a
l
l
e
r
th
a
n
an
d
no
t
co
m
p
a
t
i
b
l
e
wi
t
h
th
e
surrounding neighborhood.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Fl
a
g
Lo
t
s
.
Cr
e
a
t
e
fl
a
g
lo
t
s
in
pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
s
when they are the
on
l
y
re
a
s
o
n
a
b
l
e
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
th
a
t
in
t
e
g
r
a
t
e
s
wi
t
h
th
e
lot pattern in the
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐26
:
He
a
r
t
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
Ar
e
a
.
Cr
e
a
t
e
a positive and memorable
im
a
g
e
al
o
n
g
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bo
u
l
e
v
a
r
d
of
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
development; enhanced
ac
t
i
v
i
t
y
ga
t
e
w
a
y
s
an
d
no
d
e
s
;
an
d
sa
f
e
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
circulation and access for all
mo
d
e
s
of
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
He
a
r
t
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
Sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
Pl
a
n
.
Ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
th
e
Heart of the City Specific
Pl
a
n
as
th
e
pr
i
m
a
r
y
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
to
o
l
fo
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
to use for this area.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Ca
l
m
i
n
g
. Ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
op
t
i
o
n
s
on
St
e
v
e
n
s
Creek Boulevard to
im
p
r
o
v
e
th
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
by
pr
o
a
c
t
i
v
e
l
y
managing speed limits and
tr
a
f
f
i
c
si
g
n
a
l
sy
n
c
h
r
o
n
i
z
a
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐5:
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ac
c
e
s
s
.
Cr
e
a
t
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ac
c
e
s
s
between new
su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
s
an
d
sc
h
o
o
l
si
t
e
s
.
Re
v
i
e
w
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
circulation plans to
im
p
r
o
v
e
sa
f
e
t
y
an
d
ac
c
e
s
s
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
i
s
t
s
to school sites, including
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
2
8
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
co
m
p
l
e
t
i
n
g
ac
c
e
s
s
i
b
l
e
ne
t
w
o
r
k
of
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
an
d
pa
t
h
s
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐82
:
Op
e
n
Sp
a
c
e
an
d
Tr
a
i
l
Li
n
k
a
g
e
s
.
De
d
i
c
a
t
e
or acquire open space lands
an
d
tr
a
i
l
li
n
k
a
g
e
s
to
co
n
n
e
c
t
ar
e
a
s
an
d
pr
o
v
i
d
e
fo
r
a more walkable community.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
.
Implement the
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
a
t
i
o
n
s
of
th
e
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Plan to develop a
Ci
t
y
tr
a
i
l
/
p
e
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
li
n
k
a
g
e
be
t
w
e
e
n
ma
j
o
r
mi
x
e
d
‐use Special Areas,
em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
ce
n
t
e
r
s
,
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
,
an
d
ma
j
o
r
op
e
n
space areas.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Tr
a
i
l
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
tr
a
i
l
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
described in this element.
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
an
y
sa
f
e
t
y
,
se
c
u
r
i
t
y
an
d
pr
i
v
a
c
y
im
p
a
c
t
s
an
d
mitigations associated with
tr
a
i
l
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
af
f
e
c
t
e
d
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
in locating trails.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
De
d
i
c
a
t
e
d
Tr
a
i
l
s
or
Ea
s
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
dedication or easements for
tr
a
i
l
s
,
as
we
l
l
as
th
e
i
r
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
,
as
pa
r
t
of
th
e
development process, where
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐1:
Ci
t
y
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
o
n
in
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Planning. Participate
ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
in
de
v
e
l
o
p
i
n
g
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
ap
p
r
o
a
c
h
e
s
to
me
e
t
i
n
g
the transportation needs
of
th
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
.
Wo
r
k
cl
o
s
e
l
y
with neighboring
ju
r
i
s
d
i
c
t
i
o
n
s
an
d
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
re
s
p
o
n
s
i
b
l
e
fo
r
ro
a
d
w
a
y
s
,
transit facilities and transit
se
r
v
i
c
e
s
in
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
.
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
in regional
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
in
or
d
e
r
to
mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
ad
v
e
r
s
e
impacts on Cupertino’s
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
al
l
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
agencies to develop
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
t
wi
t
h
th
e
go
a
l
s
an
d
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
of
Cupertino’s General Plan.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
i
n
g
ci
t
i
e
s
to
ad
d
r
e
s
s
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
and land use
is
s
u
e
s
of
mu
t
u
a
l
in
t
e
r
e
s
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Jo
b
s
–
H
o
u
s
i
n
g
Ba
l
a
n
c
e
.
Mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
traffic impacts on Cupertino
by
su
p
p
o
r
t
i
n
g
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
ma
n
a
g
e
the jobs‐housing balance
th
r
o
u
g
h
o
u
t
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Co
u
n
t
y
an
d
th
e
Si
l
i
c
o
n
Va
l
l
e
y
,
including the Bay Area
re
g
i
o
n
’
s
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
an
d
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Transportation Plan.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
In
t
e
r
c
h
a
n
g
e
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
interchange
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
,
su
c
h
as
I‐28
0
wi
t
h
th
e
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
r
e
s
s
w
a
y
Stevens Creek
Bo
u
l
e
v
a
r
d
,
an
d
No
r
t
h
Wo
l
f
e
Ro
a
d
,
th
a
t
wo
u
l
d
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the use of the freeway
an
d
re
d
u
c
e
th
e
us
e
of
lo
c
a
l
st
r
e
e
t
s
.
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Co
n
g
e
s
t
i
o
n
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
(C
M
P
)
.
Ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
participate in the
pr
e
p
a
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
CM
P
an
d
ot
h
e
r
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
ef
f
o
r
t
s
to control traffic congestion
an
d
li
m
i
t
ai
r
po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Im
p
a
c
t
An
a
l
y
s
i
s
(T
I
A
)
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
TI
A
reports that meet the
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-29
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Authority (VTA) for all
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
pr
o
j
e
c
t
e
d
to
ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
mo
r
e
th
a
n
10
0
trips in the morning or
af
t
e
r
n
o
o
n
pe
a
k
ho
u
r
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Mu
l
t
i
‐mo
d
a
l
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
En
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
connections are provided to
en
a
b
l
e
tr
a
v
e
l
e
r
s
to
tr
a
n
s
i
t
i
o
n
fr
o
m
on
e
mo
d
e
of
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
to another (e.g.
bi
c
y
c
l
e
to
bu
s
)
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Bu
s
an
d
Ra
p
i
d
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Se
r
v
i
c
e
.
Support the expansion of the
VT
A
’
s
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
bu
s
tr
a
n
s
i
t
sy
s
t
e
m
an
d
ex
t
e
n
s
i
o
n
of
bus and/or light rail rapid
tr
a
n
s
i
t
in
t
o
th
e
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
an
d
De
An
z
a
Co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
to fulfill the “spoke and
wh
e
e
l
”
tr
a
n
s
i
t
sy
s
t
e
m
de
s
i
g
n
e
d
to
se
r
v
e
al
l
of
Sa
n
t
a
Clara County. Specific actions
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
i
s
st
r
a
t
e
g
y
ar
e
:
o
Re
v
i
e
w
al
l
ri
g
h
t
‐of
‐wa
y
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
for potential
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
a
i
n
t
s
to
ra
p
i
d
tr
a
n
s
i
t
development.
o
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
hi
g
h
e
r
de
n
s
i
t
y
an
d
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
development in rapid transit
co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
an
d
en
s
u
r
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
ar
e
de
s
i
g
n
e
d
to enhance the use of
tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
o
Se
e
k
th
e
co
o
p
e
r
a
t
i
v
e
su
p
p
o
r
t
of
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
,
property owners and
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
in
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
ra
p
i
d
tr
a
n
s
i
t
ex
t
e
n
s
i
o
n
s
.
o
Ac
t
i
v
e
l
y
se
e
k
to
ha
v
e
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
re
p
r
e
s
e
n
t
West Valley cities and
ul
t
i
m
a
t
e
l
y
ch
a
i
r
th
e
VT
A
Bo
a
r
d
of
Di
r
e
c
t
o
r
s
to promote the above policy
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐3:
Re
d
u
c
e
d
Re
l
i
a
n
c
e
on
th
e
Us
e
of
Si
n
g
l
e
‐Occupant Vehicles .Promote a
ge
n
e
r
a
l
de
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
re
l
i
a
n
c
e
on
pr
i
v
a
t
e
,
mo
s
t
l
y
si
n
g
l
e
‐occupant vehicles (SOV) by
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
i
n
g
at
t
r
a
c
t
i
v
e
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
to
th
e
SO
V
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
use of alternatives to the SOV
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
ca
r
‐po
o
l
i
n
g
,
us
e
of
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
,
bicycling and walking.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Sy
s
t
e
m
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
(T
S
M
)
Programs. Encourage TSM
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
fo
r
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
in
bo
t
h
th
e
pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
sectors by including
pr
e
f
e
r
r
e
d
pa
r
k
i
n
g
fo
r
ca
r
p
o
o
l
s
,
pr
o
v
i
d
i
n
g
bu
s
pa
s
s
e
s
,
encouraging compressed
wo
r
k
w
e
e
k
s
,
an
d
pr
o
v
i
d
i
n
g
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
an
d
re
w
a
r
d
s
fo
r
bicycling and walking.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Te
l
e
c
o
m
m
u
t
i
n
g
,
Te
l
e
c
o
n
f
e
r
e
n
c
i
n
g
an
d
Other Electronic
Co
m
m
u
n
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
em
p
l
o
y
e
r
s
to
us
e
th
e
in
t
e
r
n
e
t
to reduce commute
tr
a
v
e
l
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
sc
h
o
o
l
s
,
pa
r
t
i
c
u
l
a
r
l
y
at
th
e
co
l
l
e
g
e
and high school levels, to
ma
k
e
ma
x
i
m
u
m
us
e
of
th
e
in
t
e
r
n
e
t
to
li
m
i
t
th
e
ne
e
d
to travel to and from the
ca
m
p
u
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
De
s
i
g
n
of
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
new commercial
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
sh
a
r
e
d
of
f
i
c
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
ca
f
e
t
e
r
i
a
s
,
day‐care facilities,
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
3
0
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
lu
n
c
h
r
o
o
m
s
,
sh
o
w
e
r
s
,
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
,
ho
m
e
of
f
i
c
e
s
,
shuttle buses to transit
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
th
a
t
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
us
e
of transit, bicycling, walking
or
te
l
e
c
o
m
m
u
t
i
n
g
as
co
m
m
u
t
e
mo
d
e
s
to
wo
r
k
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
pedestrian pathways and
or
i
e
n
t
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
to
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
activity.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
St
r
e
e
t
Sp
a
c
e
fo
r
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
Provide space on
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
st
r
e
e
t
s
fo
r
bu
s
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
or
sa
f
e
an
d
ac
c
e
s
s
i
b
l
e
bike lanes or
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
pa
t
h
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Use the Cupertino Scene and
ot
h
e
r
me
d
i
a
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
on
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
to the SOV.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Ci
t
i
z
e
n
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
o
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
wo
r
k
with the City Bicycle
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
,
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
gr
o
u
p
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
to eliminate hazards
an
d
ba
r
r
i
e
r
s
to
bi
c
y
c
l
e
an
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
8.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
De
m
a
n
d
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
(T
D
M
)
Programs. Require large
em
p
l
o
y
e
r
s
to
de
v
e
l
o
p
an
d
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
TD
M
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to reduce the vehicle trips
ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
d
by
th
e
i
r
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
.
Wo
r
k
to
g
e
t
h
e
r
wi
t
h
the large employers to
de
v
e
l
o
p
a tr
a
c
k
i
n
g
sy
s
t
e
m
fo
r
th
e
TD
M
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
allow ongoing assessment of
re
s
u
l
t
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐4:
Im
p
r
o
v
e
d
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
Throughout Cupertino.
Ex
p
a
n
d
th
e
ci
t
y
‐wi
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
ne
t
w
o
r
k
in order to provide
im
p
r
o
v
e
d
re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
,
mo
b
i
l
i
t
y
an
d
sa
f
e
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Th
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
the projects
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
e
d
in
th
e
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
including:
o
Af
t
e
r
en
g
i
n
e
e
r
i
n
g
re
v
i
e
w
,
an
d
wh
e
r
e
fo
u
n
d
to be feasible, improve safety
at
se
l
e
c
t
e
d
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
by
on
e
or
mo
r
e
of
the following: prohibit right‐
tu
r
n
‐on
‐re
d
,
ad
d
ti
m
e
to
th
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
si
g
n
a
l
phase, construct a median
an
d
/
o
r
re
d
u
c
e
co
r
n
e
r
ra
d
i
i
.
o
Wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
pr
o
v
i
d
e
mi
s
s
i
n
g
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
on
arterial and collector streets
an
d
on
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
st
r
e
e
t
s
as
de
s
i
r
e
d
by
residents.
o
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
a ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
gr
i
d
including shortcuts,
pa
t
h
w
a
y
s
an
d
br
i
d
g
e
s
,
wh
e
r
e
ne
e
d
e
d
,
to
cl
o
s
e
gaps in the pedestrian
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Gr
i
d
.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
de
v
e
l
o
p
i
n
g
a quarter‐mile grid of safe,
wa
l
k
‐ab
l
e
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
an
d
pa
t
h
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
access among residential,
sh
o
p
p
i
n
g
,
re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
Sc
h
o
o
l
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
to
encourage students to walk,
bi
k
e
,
or
ca
r
p
o
o
l
to
sc
h
o
o
l
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-31
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Ti
m
e
on
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Si
g
n
a
l
s
.
Wi
t
h
engineering review, provide
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
ti
m
e
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
to
cr
o
s
s
st
r
e
e
t
s
at
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
intersections.
Ad
d
e
d
ti
m
e
wo
u
l
d
be
mo
s
t
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
ne
a
r
sh
o
p
p
i
n
g
districts, schools and
se
n
i
o
r
ci
t
i
z
e
n
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Th
i
s
st
r
a
t
e
g
y
sh
o
u
l
d
be considered even if it could
re
d
u
c
e
th
e
le
v
e
l
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
fo
r
au
t
o
m
o
b
i
l
e
tr
a
f
f
i
c
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
To
en
h
a
n
c
e
walking, consider various
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
to
ro
a
d
w
a
y
s
to
ma
k
e
th
e
m
mo
r
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
friendly and less
au
t
o
‐ce
n
t
r
i
c
.
Wh
e
r
e
a me
d
i
a
n
is
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
,
it
sh
o
u
l
d
be wide enough to safely
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
.
St
r
e
e
t
s
th
a
t
co
n
n
e
c
t
ma
j
o
r
pedestrian activity
ce
n
t
e
r
s
sh
o
u
l
d
be
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
d
fo
r
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
for pedestrians.
Wo
r
k
i
n
g
wi
t
h
th
e
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
,
co
n
s
i
d
e
r
re
d
u
c
i
n
g
residential street widths to
pr
o
m
o
t
e
sl
o
w
e
r
tr
a
f
f
i
c
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Cr
o
s
s
w
a
l
k
Ma
r
k
i
n
g
,
Me
d
i
a
n
s
,
an
d
“C
h
o
k
e
r
s
.
”
Following engineering
re
v
i
e
w
,
ma
r
k
cr
o
s
s
w
a
l
k
s
wi
t
h
pa
v
e
m
e
n
t
tr
e
a
t
m
e
n
t
scaled to the speed of traffic.
Us
e
me
d
i
a
n
s
an
d
“c
h
o
k
e
r
s
”
to
na
r
r
o
w
th
e
wi
d
t
h
of
the street where feasible and
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
,
an
d
to
in
d
i
c
a
t
e
an
d
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
en
t
r
a
n
c
e
s
to neighborhoods.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Pr
e
p
a
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Im
p
a
c
t
An
a
l
y
s
i
s
(TIA). Encourage all
pu
b
l
i
c
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
that require a TIA to
an
a
l
y
z
e
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
bi
c
y
c
l
e
an
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
im
p
a
c
t
s
in
accordance with the Santa
Cl
a
r
a
Co
u
n
t
y
Va
l
l
e
y
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Au
t
h
o
r
i
t
y
(V
T
A
)
TIA Guidelines.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
8.
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
.
Maintain the Cupertino Bicycle
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
,
as
ne
e
d
e
d
.
In
c
l
u
d
e
to
p
pr
i
o
r
i
t
y
bicycle projects in the annual
Ca
p
i
t
a
l
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
barriers to safe and
co
n
v
e
n
i
e
n
t
bi
c
y
c
l
e
ac
c
e
s
s
an
d
th
e
n
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
ho
w
an
d
when these barriers will be
re
m
o
v
e
d
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
9.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Implement the specific
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
id
e
n
t
i
f
i
e
d
in
th
e
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Plan. The existing Network
is
sh
o
w
n
in
Fi
g
u
r
e
4‐B.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
10
.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
in
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Encourage the developers of
ma
j
o
r
ne
w
or
re
m
o
d
e
l
e
d
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
to
in
c
l
u
d
e
se
c
u
r
e
interior and/or fully weather
pr
o
t
e
c
t
e
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
the Ordinance requirement for
10
%
of
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
to
be
Cl
a
s
s
1.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
11
.
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Ca
l
m
i
n
g
on
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Ro
u
t
e
s
.
Wh
e
r
e
feasible and appropriate,
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
tr
a
f
f
i
c
ca
l
m
i
n
g
on
th
o
s
e
bi
c
y
c
l
e
ro
u
t
e
s
where automobile traffic
vo
l
u
m
e
s
ar
e
lo
w
.
Re
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Co
u
n
t
y
Valley Transportation
Au
t
h
o
r
i
t
y
’
s
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Te
c
h
n
i
c
a
l
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
fo
r
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
e
d
traffic calming
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
tr
a
f
f
i
c
fl
o
w
s
be
s
t
wh
e
r
e
au
t
o
m
o
b
i
l
e
traffic volume and speeds
ar
e
lo
w
an
d
wh
e
r
e
th
e
r
e
ar
e
no
st
o
p
si
g
n
s
or
tr
a
f
f
i
c
signals to hinder through
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
3
2
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
tr
a
f
f
i
c
fl
o
w
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
12
.
Bi
c
y
c
l
e
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
in multi‐family residential
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
in
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
as
re
q
u
i
r
e
d
under the parking
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
of
th
e
Mu
n
i
c
i
p
a
l
Co
d
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
13
.
Fu
n
d
i
n
g
So
u
r
c
e
s
.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
fu
n
d
i
n
g
so
u
r
c
e
s
for regular maintenance
an
d
cl
e
a
n
i
n
g
of
al
l
pu
b
l
i
c
bi
c
y
c
l
e
an
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
as part of the City’s
op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
bu
d
g
e
t
,
an
d
pr
i
o
r
i
t
i
z
e
ro
u
t
i
n
e
st
r
e
e
t
ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
for streets with bike
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
14
.
Pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
Pr
i
v
a
t
e
Pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
s
.
Pa
r
t
n
e
r
with other agencies and/or
or
g
a
n
i
z
a
t
i
o
n
s
to
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
fo
r
bi
c
y
c
l
i
s
t
s
,
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
,
and motorists of
al
l
ag
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐6:
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Tr
a
i
l
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
plan and provide for a
co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
sy
s
t
e
m
of
tr
a
i
l
s
an
d
pa
t
h
w
a
y
s
co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
t
with regional systems,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
th
e
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
,
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Co
r
r
i
d
o
r
an
d
Ridge Trail, and with the
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
co
n
t
a
i
n
e
d
in
th
e
La
n
d
Us
e
an
d
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Design Element. The General
Al
i
g
n
m
e
n
t
of
th
e
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
,
as
sh
o
w
n
in
th
e
As
s
o
c
i
a
t
i
o
n
of Bay Area Governments’
Ba
y
Tr
a
i
l
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
do
c
u
m
e
n
t
,
is
in
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
d
in
th
e
General Plan by reference.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐7:
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
Us
e
of
Pu
b
l
i
c
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
Su
p
p
o
r
t
and encourage the increased
us
e
of
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
Fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
in
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
.
Ensure all new development
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
in
c
l
u
d
e
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
to
su
p
p
o
r
t
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
such as: bus stop shelters;
sp
a
c
e
fo
r
tr
a
n
s
i
t
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
to
st
o
p
an
d
ma
n
e
u
v
e
r
as
needed; transit maps and
sc
h
e
d
u
l
e
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
a
l
developments to support bus
pa
s
s
e
s
fo
r
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
St
o
p
Am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
VTA and adjacent property
ow
n
e
r
s
to
pr
o
v
i
d
e
at
t
r
a
c
t
i
v
e
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
su
c
h
as
se
a
t
i
n
g
,
lighting and signage at all
bu
s
st
o
p
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Va
l
l
c
o
Pa
r
k
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
St
a
t
i
o
n
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
VTA to study and develop a
tr
a
n
s
i
t
tr
a
n
s
f
e
r
st
a
t
i
o
n
at
So
u
t
h
Va
l
l
c
o
Pa
r
k
Ga
t
e
w
a
y
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Ra
p
i
d
Tr
a
n
s
i
t
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Valley Transportation
Au
t
h
o
r
i
t
y
(V
T
A
)
to
pl
a
n
fo
r
an
d
de
v
e
l
o
p
bu
s
an
d
/
o
r
light rail rapid transit services
in
th
e
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
an
d
no
r
t
h
De
An
z
a
co
r
r
i
d
o
r
s
to
take advantage of the
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
mi
x
e
d
‐us
e
ac
t
i
v
i
t
i
e
s
in
th
e
De
Anza College customer base.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
fr
e
q
u
e
n
c
y
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ridership. Review impacts
to
en
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
s
ar
e
op
t
i
m
i
z
e
d
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐9:
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Se
r
v
i
c
e
an
d
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
Ne
e
d
s
.
Ba
l
a
n
c
e
the needs of
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-33
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
wi
t
h
de
s
i
r
e
d
tr
a
f
f
i
c
se
r
v
i
c
e
.
Wh
e
r
e
ne
c
e
s
s
a
r
y
and appropriate, allow
a lo
w
e
r
e
d
le
v
e
l
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
to
be
t
t
e
r
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
pedestrians on major
st
r
e
e
t
s
an
d
at
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
in
t
e
r
s
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐12
:
St
r
e
e
t
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
.
Pl
a
n
st
r
e
e
t
improvements such as curb
cu
t
s
,
si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
,
bu
s
st
o
p
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
bu
s
sh
e
l
t
e
r
s
,
li
g
h
t
poles, benches and trash
co
n
t
a
i
n
e
r
s
as
an
in
t
e
g
r
a
l
pa
r
t
of
a pr
o
j
e
c
t
to
en
s
u
r
e
an enhanced streetscape and
th
e
sa
f
e
mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
of
pe
o
p
l
e
an
d
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
wi
t
h
th
e
least possible disruption to
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
s
c
a
p
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Si
d
e
w
a
l
k
Ac
c
e
s
s
to
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
or
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
.
Examine sidewalk to parking
ar
e
a
s
or
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
s
at
th
e
ti
m
e
in
d
i
v
i
d
u
a
l
si
t
e
s
develop to regulate the
en
t
r
y
to
th
e
si
t
e
at
a ce
n
t
r
a
l
po
i
n
t
.
Si
d
e
w
a
l
k
s
in
th
e
Crossroads Area shall be wide
en
o
u
g
h
to
ac
c
o
m
m
o
d
a
t
e
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
d
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
ac
t
i
v
i
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Bu
s
St
o
p
Tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
in
St
r
e
e
t
Fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
s
.
Require bus stop turnouts, or
pa
r
t
i
a
l
tu
r
n
o
u
t
s
,
wi
t
h
i
n
th
e
st
r
e
e
t
fr
o
n
t
a
g
e
of
a ne
w
or redeveloping site. This
po
l
i
c
y
do
e
s
no
t
ap
p
l
y
to
th
e
Cr
o
s
s
r
o
a
d
s
Ar
e
a
.
Bu
s
st
o
p
s
should include shelters,
be
n
c
h
e
s
,
tr
a
s
h
re
c
e
p
t
a
c
l
e
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
am
e
n
i
t
i
e
s
as
appropriate. Follow the VTA
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
fo
r
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
bu
s
st
o
p
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Ro
a
d
w
a
y
Ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
Fu
n
d
i
n
g
.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
and secure new funding
so
u
r
c
e
s
to
fu
n
d
th
e
on
‐go
i
n
g
ro
u
t
i
n
e
ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
of roadways.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Ti
m
i
n
g
of
Im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
In
t
e
g
r
a
t
e
th
e
financing, design and
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
wi
t
h
street projects. Build
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
s
at
th
e
sa
m
e
ti
m
e
as improvements for
ve
h
i
c
u
l
a
r
ci
r
c
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐13
:
Sa
f
e
Pa
r
k
i
n
g
Lo
t
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
lo
t
s
that are safe for pedestrians.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Sa
f
e
Sp
a
c
e
s
fo
r
Pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
pa
r
k
i
n
g
lot design and
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
to
in
c
l
u
d
e
cl
e
a
r
l
y
de
f
i
n
e
d
sp
a
c
e
s
fo
r
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
s
so that foot traffic
is
se
p
a
r
a
t
e
d
fr
o
m
th
e
ha
z
a
r
d
s
of
ca
r
tr
a
f
f
i
c
an
d
pe
o
p
l
e
are directed from their
ca
r
s
to
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
en
t
r
i
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
4‐15
:
Sc
h
o
o
l
Tr
a
f
f
i
c
Im
p
a
c
t
s
on
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
.
Minimize the impact of
sc
h
o
o
l
dr
o
p
‐of
f
,
pi
c
k
‐up
an
d
pa
r
k
i
n
g
on
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
wi
t
h
Sc
h
o
o
l
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
.
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
e
with the School
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
to
de
v
e
l
o
p
pl
a
n
s
an
d
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
th
a
t
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
car/van‐pooling, stagger
ho
u
r
s
of
ad
j
a
c
e
n
t
sc
h
o
o
l
s
,
dr
o
p
‐of
f
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
walking and bicycling to
sc
h
o
o
l
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Te
e
n
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
Te
e
n
Commission to work with
sc
h
o
o
l
s
to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ye
a
r
‐ro
u
n
d
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
i
z
e
walking and biking to
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
3
4
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
sc
h
o
o
l
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐3:
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Us
e
of
En
e
r
g
y
Resources. Encourage the
ma
x
i
m
u
m
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
us
e
of
electrical power and natural
ga
s
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
s
,
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
,
industrial and public
us
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
En
e
r
g
y
So
u
r
c
e
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
ensure the ease of access to
an
d
us
e
of
so
l
a
r
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
ot
h
e
r
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
,
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
energy resources for all
ne
w
an
d
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
l
y
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
buildings through effective
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
,
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
an
d
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
En
e
r
g
y
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
.
Prepare and implement a
co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
en
e
r
g
y
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
pl
a
n
fo
r
al
l
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
public facilities,
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
to
ac
h
i
e
v
e
th
e
en
e
r
g
y
go
a
l
s
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
in the City’s municipal
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
.
Em
b
e
d
th
i
s
pl
a
n
in
t
o
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Environmentally Preferable
Pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
to
en
s
u
r
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ar
e
ac
h
i
e
v
e
d
through all future
pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
wi
t
h
St
a
t
e
an
d
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
.
Continue to evaluate,
an
d
re
v
i
s
e
as
ne
c
e
s
s
a
r
y
,
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
Ci
t
y
co
d
e
s
,
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
s
and procedures for
in
c
l
u
s
i
o
n
of
lo
c
a
l
,
st
a
t
e
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
that promote energy
an
d
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to use life cycle cost analysis
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
Ci
t
y
as
s
e
t
s
fo
r
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
wi
t
h
mo
r
e
en
e
r
g
y
efficient technologies.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
In
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Su
p
p
o
r
t
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to include such items
as
re
d
u
c
e
d
pe
r
m
i
t
fe
e
s
fo
r
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
a
t
ex
c
e
e
d
the City’s Green Building
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
Ca
l
G
r
e
e
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
pr
o
m
o
t
e
ot
h
e
r
incentives from the state,
co
u
n
t
y
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
efficiency and expanding
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
in
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
by
po
s
t
i
n
g
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
regarding incentive,
re
b
a
t
e
an
d
ta
x
cr
e
d
i
t
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
we
b
si
t
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
So
l
a
r
Ac
c
e
s
s
St
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
en
s
u
r
e
compliance with the State
of
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
Su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
Ma
p
Ac
t
so
l
a
r
ac
c
e
s
s
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
in order to maximize
na
t
u
r
a
l
he
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
co
o
l
i
n
g
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
fo
r
fu
t
u
r
e
residences and businesses.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
in
c
l
u
s
i
o
n
of
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
sh
a
d
e
tr
e
e
s
and landscaping for energy
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
:
o
Of
f
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
programs and leverage those
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
Co
u
n
t
y
an
d
th
e
Ba
y
Regional Energy Network to
se
r
v
e
al
l
ut
i
l
i
t
y
us
e
r
s
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-35
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
o
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
ho
s
t
energy conservation
wo
r
k
s
h
o
p
s
fo
r
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
.
o
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
,
or
pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
ot
h
e
r
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
to
offer, educational materials,
se
m
i
n
a
r
an
d
st
a
f
f
tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
on
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
for those
wh
o
de
s
i
g
n
,
bu
i
l
d
an
d
ma
n
a
g
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
and for those who
re
g
u
l
a
t
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
,
per the City’s GreenBiz
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
In
pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
wi
t
h
De
An
z
a
Co
l
l
e
g
e
develop a “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
”
gu
i
d
e
fo
r
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
and businesses that
bu
i
l
d
s
up
o
n
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
.
The Guide should
in
c
l
u
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
cu
r
r
e
n
t
re
b
a
t
e
s
and subsidies to make
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
i
n
g
a su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
mo
r
e
financially attractive with
re
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
s
ba
c
k
to
th
e
Ci
t
y
,
St
a
t
e
,
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
and other web sites for up‐to‐
da
t
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
,
or
pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
other agencies to offer,
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
an
d
a ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
program for
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
an
d
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
wh
o
ha
v
e
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
d
in “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
co
u
r
s
e
s
.
Ma
n
y
of
th
e
cu
r
r
i
c
u
l
u
m
s
are currently available at De
An
z
a
Co
l
l
e
g
e
.
As
an
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
fo
r
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
n
g
in the “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
pr
o
g
r
a
m
th
e
Ci
t
y
wi
l
l
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
a “Sustainable Builder/
De
v
e
l
o
p
e
r
”
pa
g
e
on
th
e
i
r
cu
r
r
e
n
t
Ci
t
y
we
b
s
i
t
e
.
This page will not be an
en
d
o
r
s
e
m
e
n
t
of
th
e
in
d
i
v
i
d
u
a
l
or
co
m
p
a
n
y
listed, but a resource center
fo
r
th
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
o
Es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
an
d
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
an
En
e
r
g
y
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
Center or Kiosk at City Hall
wh
e
r
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
co
n
c
e
r
n
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
is
s
u
e
s
,
building standards,
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
as
s
i
s
t
a
n
c
e
is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
8.
En
e
r
g
y
Co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
Sy
s
t
e
m
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the use of energy
co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of
an
awareness program targeting
th
e
la
r
g
e
r
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
us
e
r
s
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
facilities.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
9.
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
De
s
i
g
n
.
En
s
u
r
e
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
,
developers, applicants
an
d
bu
i
l
d
e
r
s
me
e
t
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
and CalGreen and
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
,
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
s
an
d
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
to exceed these
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
ne
w
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of incentives. Encourage
ei
t
h
e
r
pa
s
s
i
v
e
so
l
a
r
he
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
/
o
r
da
r
k
pl
a
s
t
e
r
in
t
e
r
i
o
r
with a cover for
sw
i
m
m
i
n
g
po
o
l
s
,
ca
b
a
n
a
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
re
l
a
t
e
d
ac
c
e
s
s
o
r
y
uses where solar access is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
us
e
of
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
sources where feasible, and
co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
of
f
e
r
en
e
r
g
y
au
d
i
t
s
an
d
/
o
r
su
b
v
e
n
t
i
o
n
programs that also advance
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
ad
o
p
t
i
o
n
of
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
en
e
r
g
y
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
10
.
Us
e
of
Di
s
c
r
e
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
Pe
r
m
i
t
s
(Use Permits). Require, as
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
3
6
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
of
ap
p
r
o
v
a
l
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
,
the provision of energy
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ap
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
al
i
g
n
e
d
wi
t
h
th
e
City’s Green Building
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
Ca
l
G
r
e
e
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
11
.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Mo
d
e
s
.
Continue to encourage
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
,
fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
mo
d
e
s
su
c
h
as “clean” multi‐modal
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
,
ca
r
an
d
va
n
p
o
o
l
i
n
g
,
fl
e
x
i
b
l
e
wo
r
k
ho
u
r
s
,
safe routes to schools, and
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
t
h
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
and training,
in
f
r
a
s
t
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
in
v
e
s
t
m
e
n
t
,
an
d
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
,
including commuter benefits
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
La
n
d
Us
e
an
d
Lo
c
a
l
Im
p
a
c
t
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
LU
M
1 – Go
o
d
s
Mo
v
e
m
e
n
t
LU
M
2 – In
d
i
r
e
c
t
So
u
r
c
e
Re
v
i
e
w
LU
M
3 – En
h
a
n
c
e
d
CE
Q
A
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
LU
M
4 – La
n
d
Us
e
Gu
i
d
e
l
i
n
e
s
LU
M
5 – Re
d
u
c
e
Ri
s
k
in
Im
p
a
c
t
e
d
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
LU
M
6 – En
h
a
n
c
e
d
Ai
r
Qu
a
l
i
t
y
Mo
n
i
t
o
r
i
n
g
Th
e
20
1
0
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
al
s
o
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
la
n
d
us
e
measures to reduce air
qu
a
l
i
t
y
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
an
d
/
o
r
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
ex
p
o
s
u
r
e
in
th
e
SF
B
A
A
B
.
The following Land Use
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
B po
l
i
c
i
e
s
su
p
p
o
r
t
th
e
s
e
la
n
d
us
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
:
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐5:
Ai
r
Po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
Ef
f
e
c
t
s
of
Ne
w
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Minimize the air quality
im
p
a
c
t
s
of
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
an
d
th
e
im
p
a
c
t
s
affecting new
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
To
x
i
c
Ai
r
Co
n
t
a
m
i
n
a
n
t
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
re
v
i
e
w
projects for potential
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
of
to
x
i
c
ai
r
co
n
t
a
m
i
n
a
n
t
s
at
th
e
ti
m
e
of
approval and confer with
BA
A
Q
M
D
on
co
n
t
r
o
l
s
ne
e
d
e
d
if
im
p
a
c
t
s
ar
e
un
c
e
r
t
a
i
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Du
s
t
Co
n
t
r
o
l
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
re
q
u
i
r
e
wa
t
e
r
application to non‐polluting
du
s
t
co
n
t
r
o
l
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
du
r
i
n
g
de
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
th
e
du
r
a
t
i
o
n
of the construction
pe
r
i
o
d
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
De
c
i
s
i
o
n
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
as
s
e
s
s
th
e
potential for air pollution
ef
f
e
c
t
s
of
fu
t
u
r
e
la
n
d
us
e
an
d
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
,
and ensure that planning
de
c
i
s
i
o
n
s
su
p
p
o
r
t
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
go
a
l
s
of
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
ai
r
qu
a
l
i
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
v
i
e
w
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
the relationship of
se
n
s
i
t
i
v
e
re
c
e
p
t
o
r
s
,
su
c
h
as
co
n
v
a
l
e
s
c
e
n
t
ho
s
p
i
t
a
l
s
and residential uses, to
po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
so
u
r
c
e
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
as
s
e
s
s
m
e
n
t
of new development.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐6:
Ai
r
Po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
Ef
f
e
c
t
s
of
Ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
Minimize the air quality
im
p
a
c
t
s
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
a Ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
public education
pr
o
g
r
a
m
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
th
e
im
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
of
th
e
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Act and provide information
on
wa
y
s
to
re
d
u
c
e
an
d
co
n
t
r
o
l
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
;
co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to provide information about
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
co
m
m
u
t
e
s
,
ca
r
p
o
o
l
i
n
g
an
d
re
s
t
r
i
c
t
i
n
g
ex
a
c
e
r
b
a
t
i
n
g
activities on
“S
p
a
r
e
th
e
Ai
r
”
hi
g
h
‐po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
da
y
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Ho
m
e
Oc
c
u
p
a
t
i
o
n
s
.
Ex
p
a
n
d
th
e
al
l
o
w
a
b
l
e
home occupations in
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
l
y
zo
n
e
d
pr
o
p
e
r
t
i
e
s
to
re
d
u
c
e
th
e
ne
e
d
to
commute to work.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-37
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Tr
e
e
Pl
a
n
t
i
n
g
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
th
e
City’s tree planting program
to
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
ur
b
a
n
ca
n
o
p
y
on
Ci
t
y
pr
o
p
e
r
t
y
and encourage native,
sh
a
d
e
‐pr
o
d
u
c
i
n
g
,
dr
o
u
g
h
t
‐to
l
e
r
a
n
t
tr
e
e
an
d
ot
h
e
r
plantings on private property.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
.
Pe
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
l
y
Preferable
Pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
,
pr
i
o
r
i
t
i
z
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
pu
r
c
h
a
s
e
,
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
and ongoing use
of
fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
an
d
lo
w
po
l
l
u
t
i
n
g
ve
h
i
c
l
e
s
.
Up
d
a
t
e
the City’s Vehicle
Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
an
d
Bu
d
g
e
t
to
re
q
u
i
r
e
ve
h
i
c
l
e
li
f
e
c
y
c
l
e
cost analyses and
in
c
l
u
d
e
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
fu
e
l
i
n
g
in
f
r
a
s
t
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
re
v
i
e
w
an
d
related funding allocations.
Up
d
a
t
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Ve
h
i
c
l
e
Us
e
Po
l
i
c
y
to
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
alternative vehicle use across
al
l
de
p
a
r
t
m
e
n
t
s
an
d
fu
e
l
‐sa
v
i
n
g
dr
i
v
e
r
be
h
a
v
i
o
r
s
an
d
habits. Review and
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
fl
e
e
t
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
be
s
t
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
to
su
p
p
o
r
t
fuel conservation,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
sc
h
e
d
u
l
e
d
ma
i
n
t
e
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
fl
e
e
t
fu
e
l
tr
a
c
k
i
n
g
.
Pursue available grant
fu
n
d
i
n
g
to
of
f
s
e
t
th
e
co
s
t
of
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
i
n
g
th
e
s
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
Mo
n
i
t
o
r
Qu
a
r
r
y
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
work with County to monitor
an
d
in
f
l
u
e
n
c
e
/
e
n
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
im
p
r
o
v
e
m
e
n
t
of
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
and dust from the Hanson
an
d
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Qu
a
r
r
i
e
s
on
th
e
We
s
t
en
d
of
th
e
City.
Po
l
i
c
y
2‐8:
Ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
Co
m
p
a
t
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
.
Mi
n
i
m
i
z
e
potential conflicts with
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
fr
o
m
no
i
s
e
,
tr
a
f
f
i
c
,
li
g
h
t
and visually intrusive effects
fr
o
m
mo
r
e
in
t
e
n
s
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
wi
t
h
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
bu
f
f
e
r
i
n
g
setbacks, landscaping,
wa
l
l
s
,
li
m
i
t
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
si
t
e
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
ot
h
e
r
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
measures. Create zoning or
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
pl
a
n
s
th
a
t
re
d
u
c
e
in
c
o
m
p
a
t
i
b
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
be
t
w
e
e
n
new development and
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
ne
i
g
h
b
o
r
h
o
o
d
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
such as: daylight planes for
si
n
g
l
e
‐fa
m
i
l
y
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
,
mi
n
i
m
u
m
se
t
b
a
c
k
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
,
landscape screening,
ac
o
u
s
t
i
c
a
l
an
a
l
y
s
i
s
,
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
or
i
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
of
se
r
v
i
c
e
areas away from
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
us
e
s
an
d
li
m
i
t
a
t
i
o
n
s
on
ho
u
r
s
of
op
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
6‐28
:
Pr
o
x
i
m
i
t
y
of
Re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
to
Ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
Assess future
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
’
ex
p
o
s
u
r
e
to
ha
z
a
r
d
o
u
s
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
wh
e
n
new residential development
or
ch
i
l
d
c
a
r
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
ar
e
pr
o
p
o
s
e
d
in
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
and manufacturing areas.
Do
no
t
al
l
o
w
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
or
ch
i
l
d
c
a
r
e
facilities if such hazardous
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
ca
n
n
o
t
be
mi
t
i
g
a
t
e
d
to
an
ac
c
e
p
t
a
b
l
e
le
v
e
l
of risk.
En
e
r
g
y
an
d
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
EC
M
1 – En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
EC
M
2 – Re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
En
e
r
g
y
EC
M
3 – Ur
b
a
n
He
a
t
Is
l
a
n
d
Mi
t
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
EC
M
4 – Tr
e
e
Pl
a
n
t
i
n
g
Th
e
20
1
0
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Cl
e
a
n
Ai
r
Pl
a
n
al
s
o
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
to reduce energy use,
wa
t
e
r
us
e
,
an
d
wa
s
t
e
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
.
Th
e
fo
l
l
o
w
i
n
g
La
n
d
Use Alternative B policies
su
p
p
o
r
t
th
e
s
e
en
e
r
g
y
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
ot
h
e
r
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
measures:
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐1:
Pr
i
n
c
i
p
l
e
s
of
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
.
In
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
the principles of sustainability
in
t
o
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
’
s
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
an
d
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
sy
s
t
e
m
in order to improve the
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
,
re
d
u
c
e
gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
ga
s
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
an
d
meet the needs of the
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
3
8
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
pr
e
s
e
n
t
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
wi
t
h
o
u
t
co
m
p
r
o
m
i
s
i
n
g
th
e
ne
e
d
s
of future generations.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
Ga
s
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
Ta
r
g
e
t
.
The City shall adopt and
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
a Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
t
wi
t
h
St
a
t
e
Law.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
Ta
s
k
Fo
r
c
e
or
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
.
Appoint a Task Force or
Co
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
to
ov
e
r
s
e
e
th
e
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
of
th
e
City’s Climate Action Plan. The
go
a
l
s
of
th
i
s
Ta
s
k
Fo
r
c
e
/
C
o
m
m
i
s
s
i
o
n
wo
u
l
d
be
:
a.
Wr
i
t
e
an
d
ke
e
p
cu
r
r
e
n
t
th
e
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
through ongoing
me
a
s
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
of
mu
n
i
c
i
p
a
l
an
d
ci
t
y
‐wi
d
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to help achieve the
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
an
d
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
section of the General Plan.
b.
Id
e
n
t
i
f
y
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
,
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
i
e
s
,
an
d
pr
o
d
u
c
t
s
to attain the greenhouse
ga
s
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
s
ta
r
g
e
t
s
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
in the City’s Climate Action
Pl
a
n
an
d
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
th
e
li
f
e
‐cy
c
l
e
co
s
t
of
ow
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
for each recommended.
c.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
Ci
t
y
st
a
f
f
to
ev
a
l
u
a
t
e
th
e
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
feasibility of these
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
a
t
i
o
n
s
on
an
on
g
o
i
n
g
ba
s
i
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
adopt and implement new
en
e
r
g
y
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
an
d
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
implementation programs
th
a
t
in
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
an
d
re
g
u
l
a
t
o
r
y
process.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
Ci
t
y
‐Wi
d
e
In
v
e
n
t
o
r
y
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
co
n
d
u
c
t
an ongoing municipal and
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
‐wi
d
e
gr
e
e
n
h
o
u
s
e
ga
s
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
in
v
e
n
t
o
r
y
and periodically review
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
in
or
d
e
r
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
is
s
u
e
s
,
opportunities and
pl
a
n
n
i
n
g
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
En
e
r
g
y
an
d
Wa
t
e
r
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Plan. Prepare and
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
a co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
that prioritizes energy and
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
.
Th
i
s
pl
a
n
wi
l
l
sp
e
c
i
f
i
c
a
l
l
y
include
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
a
t
i
o
n
s
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
:
a.
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
u
m
p
t
i
o
n
.
b.
Re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
fo
s
s
i
l
fu
e
l
us
e
.
c.
Ma
x
i
m
u
m
us
e
of
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
.
d.
Im
p
r
o
v
e
Ci
t
y
‐wi
d
e
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
.
e.
Re
d
u
c
e
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
u
m
p
t
i
o
n
wi
t
h
i
n
mu
n
i
c
i
p
a
l
operations.
f.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
an
d
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
i
z
e
re
d
u
c
e
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
and business water use.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Ga
r
d
e
n
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
and school gardens,
wh
i
c
h
pr
o
v
i
d
e
a mo
r
e
li
v
a
b
l
e
en
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
by
re
g
u
l
a
t
i
n
g
temperature, noise and
po
l
l
u
t
i
o
n
,
an
d
cr
e
a
t
e
ac
c
e
s
s
to
he
a
l
t
h
y
,
lo
c
a
l
so
u
r
c
e
s
of food.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Fi
s
c
a
l
l
y
Su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Wa
s
t
e
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
.
Consider environmental and
so
c
i
a
l
co
s
t
s
in
al
l
de
c
i
s
i
o
n
‐ma
k
i
n
g
an
d
bu
d
g
e
t
de
c
i
s
i
o
n
s
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-39
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐3:
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Us
e
of
En
e
r
g
y
Resources. Encourage the
ma
x
i
m
u
m
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
an
d
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
us
e
of
electrical power and natural
ga
s
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
s
i
d
e
n
c
e
s
,
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
,
industrial and public
us
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
En
e
r
g
y
So
u
r
c
e
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
ensure the ease of access to
an
d
us
e
of
so
l
a
r
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
ot
h
e
r
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
e
,
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
energy resources for all
ne
w
an
d
si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
l
y
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
buildings through effective
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
,
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
an
d
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
En
e
r
g
y
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Pl
a
n
.
Prepare and implement a
co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
en
e
r
g
y
ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
pl
a
n
fo
r
al
l
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
public facilities,
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
to
ac
h
i
e
v
e
th
e
en
e
r
g
y
go
a
l
s
es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
e
d
in the City’s municipal
Cl
i
m
a
t
e
Ac
t
i
o
n
Pl
a
n
.
Em
b
e
d
th
i
s
pl
a
n
in
t
o
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Environmentally Preferable
Pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
to
en
s
u
r
e
me
a
s
u
r
e
s
ar
e
ac
h
i
e
v
e
d
through all future
pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
wi
t
h
St
a
t
e
an
d
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
.
Continue to evaluate,
an
d
re
v
i
s
e
as
ne
c
e
s
s
a
r
y
,
ap
p
l
i
c
a
b
l
e
Ci
t
y
co
d
e
s
,
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
s
and procedures for
in
c
l
u
s
i
o
n
of
lo
c
a
l
,
st
a
t
e
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
po
l
i
c
i
e
s
an
d
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
that promote energy
an
d
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to use life cycle cost analysis
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
Ci
t
y
as
s
e
t
s
fo
r
re
p
l
a
c
e
m
e
n
t
wi
t
h
mo
r
e
en
e
r
g
y
efficient technologies.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
In
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Su
p
p
o
r
t
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to include such items
as
re
d
u
c
e
d
pe
r
m
i
t
fe
e
s
fo
r
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
a
t
ex
c
e
e
d
the City’s Green Building
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
Ca
l
G
r
e
e
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
pr
o
m
o
t
e
ot
h
e
r
incentives from the state,
co
u
n
t
y
an
d
fe
d
e
r
a
l
go
v
e
r
n
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
im
p
r
o
v
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
efficiency and expanding
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
in
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
s
by
po
s
t
i
n
g
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
regarding incentive,
re
b
a
t
e
an
d
ta
x
cr
e
d
i
t
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
we
b
si
t
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
So
l
a
r
Ac
c
e
s
s
St
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
en
s
u
r
e
compliance with the State
of
Ca
l
i
f
o
r
n
i
a
Su
b
d
i
v
i
s
i
o
n
Ma
p
Ac
t
so
l
a
r
ac
c
e
s
s
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
in order to maximize
na
t
u
r
a
l
he
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
co
o
l
i
n
g
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
fo
r
fu
t
u
r
e
residences and businesses.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
in
c
l
u
s
i
o
n
of
ad
d
i
t
i
o
n
a
l
sh
a
d
e
tr
e
e
s
and landscaping for energy
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
7.
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
:
o
Of
f
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
and leverage those
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
Co
u
n
t
y
an
d
th
e
Ba
y
Re
g
i
o
n
a
l
Energy Network to
se
r
v
e
al
l
ut
i
l
i
t
y
us
e
r
s
.
o
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
ho
s
t
en
e
r
g
y
conservation workshops
fo
r
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
4
0
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
o
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
,
or
pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
ot
h
e
r
ag
e
n
c
i
e
s
to
offer, educational materials,
se
m
i
n
a
r
an
d
st
a
f
f
tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
on
en
e
r
g
y
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
for those
wh
o
de
s
i
g
n
,
bu
i
l
d
an
d
ma
n
a
g
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
and for those who
re
g
u
l
a
t
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
,
per the City’s GreenBiz
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
In
pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
h
i
p
wi
t
h
De
An
z
a
Co
l
l
e
g
e
develop a “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
”
gu
i
d
e
fo
r
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
and businesses that
bu
i
l
d
s
up
o
n
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
.
The Guide should
in
c
l
u
d
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
cu
r
r
e
n
t
re
b
a
t
e
s
and subsidies to make
im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
i
n
g
a su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
mo
r
e
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
l
y
attractive with
re
f
e
r
e
n
c
e
s
ba
c
k
to
th
e
Ci
t
y
,
St
a
t
e
,
Fe
d
e
r
a
l
and other web sites for up‐to‐
da
t
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
,
or
pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
other agencies to offer,
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
an
d
a ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
program for
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
an
d
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
wh
o
ha
v
e
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
d
in “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
co
u
r
s
e
s
.
Ma
n
y
of
th
e
cu
r
r
i
c
u
l
u
m
s
are currently available at De
An
z
a
Co
l
l
e
g
e
.
As
an
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
fo
r
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
i
n
g
in the “Sustainable
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
pr
o
g
r
a
m
th
e
Ci
t
y
wi
l
l
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
a “S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
Builder/
De
v
e
l
o
p
e
r
”
pa
g
e
on
th
e
i
r
cu
r
r
e
n
t
Ci
t
y
we
b
s
i
t
e
.
This page will not be an
en
d
o
r
s
e
m
e
n
t
of
th
e
in
d
i
v
i
d
u
a
l
or
co
m
p
a
n
y
listed, but a resource center
fo
r
th
e
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
.
o
Es
t
a
b
l
i
s
h
an
d
ma
i
n
t
a
i
n
an
En
e
r
g
y
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
Center or Kiosk at City Hall
wh
e
r
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
co
n
c
e
r
n
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
is
s
u
e
s
,
building standards,
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
as
s
i
s
t
a
n
c
e
is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
8.
En
e
r
g
y
Co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
Sy
s
t
e
m
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the use of energy
co
g
e
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
sy
s
t
e
m
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of
an
awareness program targeting
th
e
la
r
g
e
r
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
us
e
r
s
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
facilities.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
9.
Re
g
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
De
s
i
g
n
.
En
s
u
r
e
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
,
developers, applicants
an
d
bu
i
l
d
e
r
s
me
e
t
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
and CalGreen and
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
ar
c
h
i
t
e
c
t
s
,
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
de
s
i
g
n
e
r
s
an
d
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
to exceed these
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
ne
w
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
th
e
pr
o
v
i
s
i
o
n
of incentives. Encourage
ei
t
h
e
r
pa
s
s
i
v
e
so
l
a
r
he
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
/
o
r
da
r
k
pl
a
s
t
e
r
in
t
e
r
i
o
r
with a cover for
sw
i
m
m
i
n
g
po
o
l
s
,
ca
b
a
n
a
s
an
d
ot
h
e
r
re
l
a
t
e
d
ac
c
e
s
s
o
r
y
uses where solar access is
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
th
e
us
e
of
re
n
e
w
a
b
l
e
en
e
r
g
y
sources where feasible, and
co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
of
f
e
r
en
e
r
g
y
au
d
i
t
s
an
d
/
o
r
su
b
v
e
n
t
i
o
n
programs that also advance
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
ad
o
p
t
i
o
n
of
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
en
e
r
g
y
te
c
h
n
o
l
o
g
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
10
.
Us
e
of
Di
s
c
r
e
t
i
o
n
a
r
y
De
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
Pe
r
m
i
t
s
(Use Permits). Require, as
co
n
d
i
t
i
o
n
s
of
ap
p
r
o
v
a
l
fo
r
ne
w
an
d
re
n
o
v
a
t
e
d
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
,
the provision of energy
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
ap
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
,
al
i
g
n
e
d
wi
t
h
th
e
City’s Green Building
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-41
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
an
d
Ca
l
G
r
e
e
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
11
.
En
e
r
g
y
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Mo
d
e
s
.
Continue to encourage
al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
,
fu
e
l
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
mo
d
e
s
su
c
h
as “clean” multi‐modal
pu
b
l
i
c
tr
a
n
s
i
t
,
ca
r
an
d
va
n
p
o
o
l
i
n
g
,
fl
e
x
i
b
l
e
wo
r
k
ho
u
r
s
,
safe routes to schools, and
pe
d
e
s
t
r
i
a
n
an
d
bi
c
y
c
l
e
pa
t
h
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
and training,
in
f
r
a
s
t
r
u
c
t
u
r
e
in
v
e
s
t
m
e
n
t
,
an
d
fi
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
s
,
including commuter benefits
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐4:
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
De
s
i
g
n
.
Se
t
st
a
n
d
a
r
d
s
fo
r
the design and construction
of
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
re
s
o
u
r
c
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
i
n
g
/
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
(Green Building Design).
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Pe
r
i
o
d
i
c
a
l
l
y
review and revise the City’s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
to
en
s
u
r
e
al
i
g
n
m
e
n
t
wi
t
h
state CalGreen requirements
fo
r
al
l
ma
j
o
r
pr
i
v
a
t
e
an
d
pu
b
l
i
c
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
th
a
t
en
s
u
r
e
reduction in energy and
wa
t
e
r
us
e
fo
r
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
th
r
o
u
g
h
si
t
e
se
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
and building design.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
En
e
r
g
y
Au
d
i
t
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
of
f
e
r
and leverage regional
pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
’
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
co
n
d
u
c
t
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
en
e
r
g
y
as
s
e
s
s
m
e
n
t
s
for homes,
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
,
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
an
d
ci
t
y
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
an
d
re
c
o
m
m
e
n
d
improvements that lead
to
en
e
r
g
y
an
d
co
s
t
sa
v
i
n
g
s
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
fo
r
pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
n
t
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
”
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
i
o
n
Gu
i
d
e
.
Pr
e
p
a
r
e
a “Green Building”
ev
a
l
u
a
t
i
o
n
gu
i
d
e
ba
s
e
d
up
o
n
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Ordinance, CalGreen, and
ab
o
v
e
li
s
t
e
d
“e
s
s
e
n
t
i
a
l
co
m
p
o
n
e
n
t
s
”
fo
r
us
e
by
th
e
city staff when reviewing
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
4.
St
a
f
f
Tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
tr
a
i
n
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
staff in the design
pr
i
n
c
i
p
l
e
s
,
co
s
t
s
,
an
d
be
n
e
f
i
t
s
of
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
and landscape design.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
st
a
f
f
to
at
t
e
n
d
ou
t
s
i
d
e
tr
a
i
n
i
n
g
s
on
th
e
s
e
topics and attain relevant
pr
o
g
r
a
m
ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
s
(e
.
g
.
Gr
e
e
n
Po
i
n
t
Ra
t
e
r
,
LE
E
D
Accredited Professional).
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
5.
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
”
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
Se
m
i
n
a
r
s
.
Conduct and/or participate
in
“G
r
e
e
n
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
”
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
a
l
se
m
i
n
a
r
s
an
d
wo
r
k
s
h
o
p
s
for members of the
de
s
i
g
n
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
in
d
u
s
t
r
y
,
la
n
d
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
,
real estate sales, lending
in
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
s
,
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
an
d
de
s
i
g
n
,
th
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
maintenance industry and
pr
o
s
p
e
c
t
i
v
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
ap
p
l
i
c
a
n
t
s
.
Co
n
s
i
d
e
r
mo
d
e
l
i
n
g
this program after the CERT
pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
6.
Pu
b
l
i
c
Co
m
m
u
n
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
Fu
r
t
h
e
r
ac
c
e
l
e
r
a
t
e
community adoption of
gr
e
e
n
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
pr
a
c
t
i
c
e
s
th
r
o
u
g
h
re
g
u
l
a
r
l
y
fe
a
t
u
r
e
d
articles in the Cupertino
Sc
e
n
e
,
me
d
i
a
ou
t
r
e
a
c
h
to
th
e
Co
u
r
i
e
r
an
d
th
e
Gu
i
d
e
(San Jose Mercury),
st
r
e
a
m
i
n
g
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
e
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
an
d
ot
h
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
courses or seminars on
th
e
Ci
t
y
Ch
a
n
n
e
l
,
an
d
ma
k
e
th
e
s
e
re
c
o
r
d
i
n
g
s
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
at the Library.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐7:
Us
e
of
Op
e
n
Fi
r
e
s
an
d
Fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
.
Di
s
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
high pollution fireplace
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
4
2
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
us
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Ba
y
Ar
e
a
Ai
r
Qu
a
l
i
t
y
Ma
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
(BAAQMD) Literature.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
ma
k
e
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
BA
A
Q
M
D
li
t
e
r
a
t
u
r
e
on
reducing pollution from
fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
us
e
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
In
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
Ne
w
Fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to prohibit the use of wood‐
bu
r
n
i
n
g
fi
r
e
p
l
a
c
e
s
in
ne
w
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
,
ex
c
e
p
t
fo
r
Environmental Protection
Ag
e
n
c
y
Ce
r
t
i
f
i
e
d
Wo
o
d
s
t
o
v
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐28
:
In
t
e
r
a
g
e
n
c
y
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
actively pursue interagency
co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
fo
r
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
wa
t
e
r
su
p
p
l
y
pr
o
b
l
e
m
so
l
v
i
n
g
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐29
:
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
Lo
c
a
l
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Po
l
i
c
i
e
s
with Regionwide
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Po
l
i
c
i
e
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
e
ci
t
y
w
i
d
e
water conservation
ef
f
o
r
t
s
wi
t
h
th
e
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
Wa
t
e
r
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
(S
C
V
W
D
)
,
San Jose Water
Co
m
p
a
n
y
an
d
Ca
l
Wa
t
e
r
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
.
Wa
t
e
r
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
.
Im
p
l
e
m
e
n
t
the drought plans from the
Ci
t
y
’
s
wa
t
e
r
re
t
a
i
l
e
r
s
(S
a
n
Jo
s
e
Wa
t
e
r
Co
m
p
a
n
y
an
d
California Water Company)
an
d
SC
V
W
D
wh
e
n
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
ef
f
o
r
t
s
ar
e
ne
e
d
e
d
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐30
:
Pu
b
l
i
c
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
Ef
f
o
r
t
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
th
e
public information regarding
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
e
f
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
te
c
h
n
i
q
u
e
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
how paving and other
im
p
e
r
v
i
o
u
s
su
r
f
a
c
e
s
im
p
a
c
t
ru
n
o
f
f
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Ou
t
r
e
a
c
h
.
Pa
r
t
i
c
i
p
a
t
e
in
re
g
i
o
n
a
l
pu
b
l
i
c
outreach with other
st
o
r
m
w
a
t
e
r
co
‐pe
r
m
i
t
t
e
e
s
.
Al
s
o
co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
se
n
d
educational information and
no
t
i
c
e
s
to
ho
u
s
e
h
o
l
d
s
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
wi
t
h
wa
t
e
r
pr
o
h
i
b
i
t
i
o
n
s
,
water allocations
an
d
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
ti
p
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to
of
f
e
r
fe
a
t
u
r
e
d
ar
t
i
c
l
e
s
in the Cupertino Scene
an
d
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Co
u
r
i
e
r
.
Pr
o
v
i
d
e
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Pu
b
l
i
c
Service Announcements on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Ch
a
n
n
e
l
an
d
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Ra
d
i
o
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
De
m
o
n
s
t
r
a
t
i
o
n
Ga
r
d
e
n
s
.
In
c
l
u
d
e
wa
t
e
r
‐wise demonstration gardens
in
so
m
e
pa
r
k
s
wh
e
r
e
fe
a
s
i
b
l
e
as
th
e
y
ar
e
re
‐la
n
d
s
c
a
p
e
d
or improved using
dr
o
u
g
h
t
to
l
e
r
a
n
t
na
t
i
v
e
an
d
no
n
‐in
v
a
s
i
v
e
,
no
n
‐na
t
i
v
e
plants.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Ma
s
t
e
r
Ga
r
d
e
n
e
r
s
.
Wo
r
k
wi
t
h
th
e
Co
u
n
t
y
Master Gardeners and
ot
h
e
r
re
l
e
v
a
n
t
st
e
w
a
r
d
s
h
i
p
pa
r
t
n
e
r
s
to
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
wa
t
e
r
‐wise plant materials and
ir
r
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
me
t
h
o
d
s
fo
r
us
e
in
pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
pr
i
v
a
t
e
ar
e
a
s
.
This information should be
sh
a
r
e
d
on
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
e
n
we
b
si
t
e
an
d
in
c
l
u
d
e
d
in
Cupertino Scene
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
Se
c
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐31
:
Wa
t
e
r
Us
e
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
use of water throughout the
Ci
t
y
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Re
c
y
c
l
e
d
Wa
t
e
r
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
on
s
i
t
e
wa
t
e
r
recycling including the use
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-43
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
of
ci
s
t
e
r
n
s
to
co
l
l
e
c
t
ra
i
n
ru
n
o
f
f
an
d
tr
e
a
t
e
d
gr
a
y
wa
t
e
r
systems.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
La
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
Pl
a
n
s
.
Pe
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Gr
e
y
w
a
t
e
r
Ordinance, require
wa
t
e
r
‐ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
pl
a
n
s
th
a
t
in
c
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
the usage of recycled water
fo
r
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
e
ir
r
i
g
a
t
i
o
n
as
pa
r
t
of
th
e
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
review process.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Wa
t
e
r
Co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
to work with the Santa Clara
Va
l
l
e
y
Wa
t
e
r
Di
s
t
r
i
c
t
,
Sa
n
Jo
s
e
Wa
t
e
r
an
d
Ca
l
Wa
t
e
r
to undertake programs that
pr
o
m
o
t
e
wa
t
e
r
us
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
fo
r
mu
n
i
c
i
p
a
l
,
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
,
and commercial
cu
s
t
o
m
e
r
s
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
ac
t
i
v
i
t
i
e
s
th
a
t
su
p
p
o
r
t
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Green Business
Ce
r
t
i
f
i
c
a
t
i
o
n
go
a
l
s
of
lo
n
g
‐te
r
m
wa
t
e
r
co
n
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
within City buildings,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
in
s
t
a
l
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
lo
w
‐fl
o
w
to
i
l
e
t
s
an
d
sh
o
w
e
r
s
,
installation of automatic
sh
u
t
of
f
va
l
v
e
s
in
la
v
a
t
o
r
i
e
s
an
d
si
n
k
s
an
d
wa
t
e
r
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
outdoor irrigation, per
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
Wa
t
e
r
Ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
La
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
,
En
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l
l
y
Preferable
Pr
o
c
u
r
e
m
e
n
t
Po
l
i
c
y
,
an
d
th
e
Pa
r
k
s
& Re
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
Gr
e
e
n
Policies.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐38
:
Co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
/
I
n
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
.
Ex
p
a
n
d
existing commercial and
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
to
me
e
t
an
d
su
r
p
a
s
s
AB939 waste stream reduction
go
a
l
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
.
In
c
r
e
a
s
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
.
Re
q
u
e
s
t
th
a
t
al
l
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
and industrial uses to
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
i
r
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
ef
f
o
r
t
s
to
he
l
p
th
e
ci
t
y
ac
h
i
e
v
e
its recycling goals.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐39
:
Re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
.
A co
m
p
r
e
h
e
n
s
i
v
e
recycling program is to be
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
fo
r
al
l
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
an
d
mu
l
t
i
‐fa
m
i
l
y
dw
e
l
l
i
n
g
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Co
o
r
d
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
wi
t
h
So
l
i
d
Wa
s
t
e
an
d
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Contractor. Work closely
wi
t
h
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
so
l
i
d
wa
s
t
e
an
d
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
to develop and implement
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
t
an
d
ef
f
e
c
t
i
v
e
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
me
t
h
o
d
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
E‐Wa
s
t
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
Co
n
t
i
n
u
e
/
m
a
k
e
permanent the e‐waste
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
pr
o
g
r
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
Cu
r
b
s
i
d
e
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
of
Ya
r
d
Wa
s
t
e
an
d
Co
m
p
o
s
t
a
b
l
e
s
.
Include vegetable,
fr
u
i
t
an
d
ot
h
e
r
ap
p
r
o
p
r
i
a
t
e
fo
o
d
it
e
m
s
,
as
we
l
l
as
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
of non‐reusable
ba
t
t
e
r
i
e
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐40
:
On
‐si
t
e
Ga
r
b
a
g
e
an
d
Or
g
a
n
i
c
Co
l
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
Area Dedication. Modify
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
,
an
d
re
q
u
i
r
e
fo
r
ne
w
de
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
s
,
on
‐si
t
e
waste facility requirements
fo
r
al
l
mu
l
t
i
‐fa
m
i
l
y
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
,
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
land uses to have
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
co
v
e
r
e
d
ar
e
a
fo
r
a co
m
b
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
ga
r
b
a
g
e
,
recycling and organic
co
l
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
.
Or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
Re
v
i
s
i
o
n
s
.
Re
v
i
s
e
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
or
d
i
n
a
n
c
e
s
as needed relative to
on
‐si
t
e
wa
s
t
e
fa
c
i
l
i
t
y
re
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
fo
r
al
l
mu
l
t
i
‐fa
m
i
l
y
residential, commercial
an
d
in
d
u
s
t
r
i
a
l
zo
n
i
n
g
di
s
t
r
i
c
t
s
to
re
q
u
i
r
e
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
covered area for a
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CI
T
Y
O
F
C
U
P
E
R
T
I
N
O
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
5.
3
-
4
4
JUNE 18, 2014
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
co
m
b
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
ga
r
b
a
g
e
,
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
or
g
a
n
i
c
co
l
l
e
c
t
i
o
n
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐41
:
Pu
b
l
i
c
Ed
u
c
a
t
i
o
n
.
Pr
o
m
o
t
e
th
e
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
public education program
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
th
e
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
of
so
l
i
d
wa
s
t
e
di
s
p
o
s
a
l
wh
i
l
e
encouraging recycling and
or
g
a
n
i
c
di
v
e
r
s
i
o
n
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Us
e
th
e
lo
c
a
l
television channel, the
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
Sc
e
n
e
,
th
e
In
t
e
r
n
e
t
an
d
ot
h
e
r
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
media to provide information
to
th
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
ab
o
u
t
th
e
ob
j
e
c
t
i
v
e
s
of
th
e
Ci
t
y
’
s
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
and organic diversion
pr
o
g
r
a
m
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Re
u
s
a
b
l
e
Pr
o
d
u
c
t
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
us
e
of
re
u
s
a
b
l
e
products.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐42
:
Ci
t
y
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
Or
g
a
n
i
c
Di
v
e
r
s
i
o
n
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
City staff to recycle
an
d
co
m
p
o
s
t
at
al
l
Ci
t
y
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
Or
g
a
n
i
c
Di
v
e
r
s
i
o
n
Op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
.
Provide collection bins
an
d
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
th
e
nu
m
b
e
r
of
ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
an
d
organic bins at strategically
lo
c
a
t
e
d
ar
e
a
s
to
fa
c
i
l
i
t
a
t
e
di
s
p
o
s
a
l
of
re
c
y
c
l
a
b
l
e
an
d
organic materials, including
al
l
Ci
t
y
pa
r
k
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Sc
h
o
o
l
s
an
d
In
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
s
.
Pa
r
t
n
e
r
wi
t
h
sc
h
o
o
l
s
/
i
n
s
t
i
t
u
t
i
o
n
s
in Cupertino
to
en
s
u
r
e
th
a
t
th
e
y
un
d
e
r
s
t
a
n
d
an
d
ar
e
ad
h
e
r
i
n
g
to
the City’s recycling and
or
g
a
n
i
c
di
v
e
r
s
i
o
n
go
a
l
s
an
d
pr
o
v
i
d
i
n
g
ad
e
q
u
a
t
e
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
and composting
op
p
o
r
t
u
n
i
t
i
e
s
to
st
a
f
f
an
d
st
u
d
e
n
t
s
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐43
:
Re
‐di
s
t
r
i
b
u
t
i
o
n
of
Re
u
s
a
b
l
e
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
Through public education,
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
to
re
‐di
s
t
r
i
b
u
t
e
reusable materials (e.g.
ga
r
a
g
e
sa
l
e
s
,
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
ex
c
h
a
n
g
e
)
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Di
s
s
e
m
i
n
a
t
i
o
n
of
Re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
In
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
.
Disseminate information to
bo
t
h
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
e
s
an
d
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
re
g
a
r
d
i
n
g
th
e
be
n
e
f
i
t
s
of recycling and further
re
d
u
c
i
n
g
th
e
so
l
i
d
wa
s
t
e
st
r
e
a
m
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Us
e
of
th
e
In
t
e
r
n
e
t
.
Se
t
up
a we
b
si
t
e
fo
r
the benefit of the public
wh
e
r
e
in
f
o
r
m
a
t
i
o
n
ca
n
be
po
s
t
e
d
id
e
n
t
i
f
y
i
n
g
th
e
av
a
i
l
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
of recyclable
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
th
e
lo
c
a
t
i
o
n
of
ex
c
h
a
n
g
e
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
3.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
of
Pr
o
d
u
c
t
St
e
w
a
r
d
s
h
i
p
.
Per the City’s Extended
Pr
o
d
u
c
e
r
Re
s
p
o
n
s
i
b
i
l
i
t
y
(E
P
R
)
po
l
i
c
y
,
su
p
p
o
r
t
EP
R
in
i
t
i
a
t
i
v
e
s
and statewide
le
g
i
s
l
a
t
i
o
n
th
a
t
wi
l
l
gi
v
e
in
c
e
n
t
i
v
e
fo
r
th
e
re
d
e
s
i
g
n
of products and packaging to
fa
c
i
l
i
t
a
t
e
th
e
re
‐us
e
of
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
to
ma
k
e
th
e
ov
e
r
a
l
l
products less toxic and
ea
s
i
e
r
to
re
c
y
c
l
e
.
Po
l
i
c
y
5‐44
:
Re
u
s
e
of
Bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
Ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
En
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
the recycling and reuse of
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
,
in
c
l
u
d
i
n
g
re
c
y
c
l
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
d
by the demolition and
re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
of
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
s
.
GE
N
E
R
A
L
P
L
A
N
A
M
E
N
D
M
E
N
T
,
H
O
U
S
I
N
G
E
L
E
M
E
N
T
U
P
D
A
T
E
,
A
N
D
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
E
D
R
E
Z
O
N
I
N
G
D
R
A
F
T
E
I
R
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LA
N
D
U
S
E
A
L
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
V
E
B
PL
A
C
E
W
O
R
K
S
5.3-45
TAB
L
E
5.
3
‐2
CON
T
R
O
L
MEA
S
U
R
E
S
FR
O
M
TH
E
20
1
0
BAY
ARE
A
CLE
A
N
AIR
PLA
N
Ty
p
e
Me
a
s
u
r
e
Nu
m
b
e
r
/ Ti
t
l
e
Co
n
s
i
s
t
e
n
c
y
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
1.
Po
s
t
De
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
Re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Encourage contractors to
po
s
t
de
m
o
l
i
t
i
o
n
an
d
re
m
o
d
e
l
i
n
g
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
on
th
e
In
t
e
r
n
e
t
announcing the
av
a
i
l
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
of
po
t
e
n
t
i
a
l
re
u
s
a
b
l
e
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
.
St
r
a
t
e
g
y
2.
Pu
b
l
i
c
an
d
Pr
i
v
a
t
e
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Re
q
u
i
r
e
co
n
t
r
a
c
t
o
r
s
working on City
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
to
us
e
re
c
y
c
l
e
d
bu
i
l
d
i
n
g
ma
t
e
r
i
a
l
s
an
d
su
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
l
y
harvested wood
pr
o
d
u
c
t
s
to
th
e
ma
x
i
m
u
m
ex
t
e
n
t
po
s
s
i
b
l
e
an
d
en
c
o
u
r
a
g
e
them to do the same
on
pr
i
v
a
t
e
pr
o
j
e
c
t
s
.
Fu
r
t
h
e
r
St
u
d
y
Co
n
t
r
o
l
Me
a
s
u
r
e
s
FS
M
1 – Ad
h
e
s
i
v
e
s
an
d
Se
a
l
a
n
t
s
FS
M
2 – Re
a
c
t
i
v
i
t
y
in
Co
a
t
i
n
g
an
d
So
l
v
e
n
t
s
FS
M
3 – So
l
v
e
n
t
Cl
e
a
n
i
n
g
an
d
De
g
r
e
a
s
i
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GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-46 JUNE 18, 2014
Regional Growth Projections for VMT and Population and Employment
Future development under Land Use Alternative B would result in additional sources of criteria air
pollutants. Growth accommodated within the City would occur over a 20-year or longer time horizon. As a
result, BAAQMD’s approach to evaluating impacts from criteria air pollutants generated by long-term
growth associated with a plan is done in comparison to BAAQMD’s AQMP rather than a comparison of
emissions to project-level significance thresholds. This is because BAAQMD’s AQMP plans for growth in the
SFBAAB are based on regional population and employment projections identified by ABAG and growth in
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) identified by Santa Clara Valley Transportation Agency (VTA). Changes in
regional, community-wide emissions in Cupertino could affect the ability of BAAQMD to achieve the air
quality goals identified in the AQMP. Consequently, air quality impacts for a plan-level analysis are based on
consistency with the regional growth projections.
As previously discussed under subheading “Attain Air Quality Standards” above, the additional residential
population resulting from implementation of Land Use Alternative B is within the regional population
projections (3,649 fewer residents) but would exceed the regional employment projections (5,832 more
employees). However, because future growth under Land Use Alternative B would come incrementally over
approximately 26 years and would be guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of
the principal goals and objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area, this additional
growth would be consistent with the regional planning objectives established for the Bay Area, which
concentrates new development within infill sites. The General Plan includes policies and strategies that,
once adopted, would ensure coordination with regional agencies on regional planning initiatives. Policy 5-5,
Air Pollution Effects of New Development, would require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of
new development projects and the impacts affecting new development. Supporting Strategy 3 would require
the City to assess the potential for air pollution effects of future land use and transportation planning, to
ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of improving air quality. The Circulation Element also
includes policies regarding coordination with regional transportation planning agencies. Policy 4-1, City
Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, would require the City actively participate in developing
regional approaches to meeting the transportation needs of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley.
Citywide VMT estimates derived from assumed 2040 land use under Land Use Alternative B were
calculated by Hexagon Transportation Consultants, using the VTA model. Land uses in the City would
generate 897,419 VMT per day (10.47 miles per service population per day in 2013). Based on the future
estimates of VMT per person for Cupertino as projected by the VTA model for year 2040, 1,097,596 VMT
per day (10.24 miles per service population per day in 2040) would be generated in the City. Table 5.3-3
compares the projected increase in service population with the projected increase in VMT. As shown in this
table, daily VMT in the Project Study Area would increase at a slower rate (22.3 percent) between 2013 and
2040 than would the service population of the Project Study Area (25.0 percent). BAAQMD’s AQMP would
require that the VMT increase be less than or equal to the projected population increase and the project.
Land Use Alternative B would result in a lower VMT rate of growth than rate of service population growth.
Consequently, impacts for the City of Cupertino would be less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-47
TABLE 5.3‐3 COMPARISON OF THE CHANGE IN SERVICE POPULATION AND VMT FOR LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Category 2013
2040 Land Use
Alternative B Change
Percent
Change
Population 58,302 68,051 9,749 16.7%
Employment 27,387 39,092 11,705 42.7%
Total Service Population 85,689 107,143 21,454 25.0%
VMT/Day 897,419 1,097,596 200,177 22.3%
Notes: VMT is provided by Hexagon based on the VTA model.
Applicable Regulations
Assembly Bill (AB) 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 California Code of Regulations (CCR): Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, CCR: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, CCR: Green Building Standards Code
California Air Resources Board (CARB) Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic
Control Measure to Limit Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Land Use Alternative B would support the primary goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan. The buildout
of Land Use Alternative B would not conflict with the BAAQMD Bay Area Clean Air Plan goal for
community-wide VMT to increase at a slower rate compared to population and employment growth. The
rate of growth in VMT would not exceed the rate of population and employment growth. Consequently,
impacts are less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-48 JUNE 18, 2014
AQ-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would violate any air quality
standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation.
BAAQMD has identified thresholds of significance for criteria pollutant emissions and criteria air pollutant
precursors, including reactive organic gases (ROG), nitric oxide (NO), PM10 and PM2.5. Development
projects below the significance thresholds are not expected to generate sufficient criteria pollutant emissions
to violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation.
According to BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines, long-range plans (e.g. general plan, redevelopment plans,
specific plans, area plans, community plans, regional plans, congestion management plans, etc.) present
unique challenges for assessing impacts. Due to the SFBAAB’s nonattainment status for ozone and PM and
the cumulative impacts of growth on air quality, these plans almost always have significant, unavoidable
adverse air quality impacts.
Operational Emissions
Although BAAQMD’s CEQA Air Quality Guidelines only require an emissions inventory of criteria air
pollutants for project-level analyses, an inventory of criteria air pollutants was generated for Land Use
Alternative B, since enough information regarding the buildout of the current General Plan is available and
can be used to identify the magnitude of emissions from buildout of Land Use Alternative B. Table 5.3-4
identifies the emissions associated with buildout of Land Use Alternative B. Subsequent environmental
review of development projects would be required to assess potential impacts under BAAQMD’s project-
level thresholds shown in Table 5.3-4.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would reduce criteria air pollutants
from development projects to the maximum extent practicable. Within the Land Use/ Community Design
Element, Policy 2-2, Connections Between Special Areas, Employment Centers and the Community and
supporting strategies would require the city to provide strong connections between the mixed-use Special
Areas, employment centers, and the surrounding community. Policy 2-12, Long Term Growth Boundary,
would require the City to allow modification of the long-term growth boundary only in conjunction with a
comprehensive review of the City’s General Plan. Policy 2-22, Jobs/Housing Balance and supporting
strategies, require the City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Policy 2-26, Heart
of the City Special Area, and supporting strategies, require the City to create a positive and memorable
image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of mixed-use development; enhanced activity gateways and nodes; and
safe and efficient circulation and access for all modes of transportation. Policy 4-5, Pedestrian Access,
require the City to create pedestrian access between new subdivisions and school sites. Review existing
neighborhood circulation plans to improve safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists to school sites,
including completing accessible network of sidewalks and paths. Within the Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability, Policy 5-3, Conservation and
Efficient Use of Energy Resources, Policy 5-4, Green Building Design, require the City to apply the
principles of sustainability, conserve energy, set standards for the design and construction of energy and
resource conserving/efficient building (Green Building Design).
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-49
TABLE 5.3‐4 COMMUNITY‐WIDE CRITERIA AIR POLLUTANTS GENERATED BY LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Category
Criteria Air Pollutants (average lbs/day)
ROG NOx
Exhaust
PM10
Exhaust
PM2.5
Transportationa
66 376 128 56
Energyb
60 526 41 41
Area Sourcesc
1,606 773 57 56
Total 1,732 1,674 226 153
Change from 2013 Land Uses 309 1,417 193 130
BAAQMD Average Daily Project‐Level Threshold 54 54 82 54
Exceeds Average Daily Threshold Yes Yes Yes Yes
Total Tons per Year (tpy) 315 tpy 297 tpy 40 tpy 27 tpy
Change from 2013 Land Uses 56 tpy 39 tpy 6 tpy 4 tpy
BAAQMD Annual Project‐Level Threshold 10 tpy 10 tpy 15 tpy 10 tpy
Exceeds Annual Threshold Yes Yes No No
Note: Emissions may note total to 100 percent due to rounding.
a. Transportation. VMT is based on data provided by Hexagon, based on VTA model for Cupertino and modeled with EMFAC2011‐PL for running
exhaust emissions using 2035 emission rates (note: 2040 emissions rates are not available). VMT is multiplied by 347 days/year to account for reduced
traffic on weekends and holidays.
b. Energy. Based on three‐year average (2012–2010) of energy use provided by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and forecast based on Land Use
Alternative B housing units (residential), employment (non‐residential), and service population (City) projections. The nonresidential sector includes
direct access customers, county facilities, and other district facilities within the City boundaries.
c. Area Sources – Off‐road Emissions. Generated using OFFROAD2007. Estimated based on population (Landscaping), employment (Light Commercial
Equipment), and construction building permits (Construction) for Cupertino as a percentage of Santa Clara County. Annual construction emissions
forecasts are assumed to be similar to historic levels. Forecasts for landscaping equipment use are based on Land Use Alternative B population
projections, and for light commercial equipment use are based on Land Use Alternative B employment projections. Excludes BAAQMD‐permitted
sources. ROG emissions from consumer product use based on the emissions rates in CalEEMod 2013.2.2. Daily construction emissions multiplied by 347
days/year to account for reduced/limited construction activity on weekends and holidays. Excludes fugitive emissions from construction sites.
Policy 5-6, Air Pollution Effects of Existing Development, and supporting strategies require the City to
minimize the air quality impacts of existing development through citywide public education program
regarding the implications of the Clean Air Act expanding home occupations, increase planting of trees on
City property and encourage the practice on private property, and maintain City use of fuel-efficient and
low polluting vehicles. Policy 5-7, Use of Open Fires and Fireplaces, would require the City to discourage
high pollution fireplace use. Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional
Transportation Planning, and supporting strategies would require the City to participate actively in
developing regional approaches to meeting the transpor tation needs of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley
and work closely with neighboring jurisdictions and agencies responsible for roadways, transit facilities and
transit services in Cupertino. Policy 4-3, Reduced Reliance on the Use of Single-Occupant Vehicles, and
supporting strategies, require the City to promote a general decrease in reliance on private, mostly single-
occupant vehicles (SOV) by encouraging attractive alter natives by encouraging the use of alternatives to the
SOV including increased car-pooling, use of public transit, bicycling and walking; TSM programs; employers
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-50 JUNE 18, 2014
to use the internet to reduce commute travel; schools, particularly at the college and high school levels, to
make maximum use of the internet to limit the need to travel to and from the campus, new commercial
developments to provide shared office facilities, cafeterias, day-care facilities, lunchrooms, showers, bicycle
parking, home offices, shuttle buses to transit facilities and other amenities that encourage the use of transit,
bicycling, walking or telecommuting as commute modes to work. Provide pedestrian pathways and orient
buildings to the street to encourage pedestrian activity. Require the use the Cupertino Scene and other
media to provide educational material on alternatives to the SOV and to continue to work with the City
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, community groups and residents to eliminate hazards and barriers
to bicycle and pedestrian transportation.
Despite implementation of the existing and amended Land Use Alternative B policies and strategies, as
identified in Table 5.3-4, criteria air pollutant emissions associated with buildout of Land Use Alternative B
would generate a substantial increase in emissions that exceeds the BAAQMD regional significance
thresholds (ROG, NOx, and PM10). Criteria air pollutant emissions would be generated from on-site area
sources (e.g. landscaping fuel, consumer products), vehicle trips generated by the project, and energy use
(e.g. natural gas used for cooking and heating). This is considered a significant impact.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 CCR: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, CCR: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, CCR: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Mitigation Measures
Future development under Land Use Alternative B would result in a substantial long-term increase in
criteria air pollutants over the 26-year General Plan horizon. Criteria air pollutant emissions would be
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-51
generated from on-site area sources (e.g. landscaping fuel, consumer products), vehicle trips generated by
the project, and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for cooking and heating). The General Plan policies and
strategies listed previously under Impact AQ-1 and listed above would minimize emissions to the extent
feasible; however, there are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact due to the level of
growth forecast in the city. Impacts are significant.
Compliance with the goals and policies of Land Use Alternative B would reduce operational emissions from
development under the Land Use Alternative B. In addition, Mitigation Measure AQ-4a (for new sources of
toxic air contaminants, see below), would also reduce criteria air pollutants associated with light industrial
land uses within the city. Future development in Cupertino could generate operational emissions in excess
of the BAAQMD significance thresholds. Operational emissions from future development would be
determined during project-level CEQA review. The total criteria air pollutant emissions from operation of
future development projects under Land Use Alternative B would be substantial and would contribute to
increases in concentrations of air pollutants, which could contribute to ongoing violations of air quality
standards. It should be noted that the identification of this program-level impact does not preclude the
finding of less-than-significant impacts for subsequent projects that comply with BAAQMD screening
criteria or meet applicable thresholds of significance. However, due to the programmatic nature of Land Use
Alternative B, no additional mitigation measures are available, and the impact is considered significant and
unavoidable.
Significance Without Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
Construction Emissions
BAAQMD’s plan-level guidelines do not require an evaluation of construction emissions for plan-level
projects. There is no proposed development under Land Use Alternative B at this time. Future development
proposals under Land Use Alternative B would be subject to separate environmental review pursuant to
CEQA in order to identify and mitigate potential air quality impacts. Because the details regarding future
construction activities are not known at this time, including phasing of future individual projects,
construction duration and phasing, and preliminary construction equipment, construction emissions are
evaluated qualitatively in accordance with BAAQMD’s plan-level guidance.
Construction emissions associated with individual development projects under Land Use Alternative B
would generate an increase in criteria air pollutants and TACs. BAAQMD has developed project-level
thresholds for construction activities. Subsequent environmental review of future development projects
would be required to assess potential impacts under BAAQMD’s project-level thresholds. Construction
emissions from buildout of future projects within Cupertino would primarily be 1) exhaust emissions from
off-road diesel-powered construction equipment; 2) dust generated by demolition, grading, earthmoving,
and other construction activities; 3) exhaust emissions from on-road vehicles and 4) off-gas emissions of
ROGs from application of asphalt, paints, and coatings.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would minimize impacts during
construction. Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects
of New Development, would require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-52 JUNE 18, 2014
projects and the impacts affecting new development. Strategy 2, Dust Control, directs the City to require
water application to non-polluting dust control measures during demolition and the duration of the
construction period. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-51, Rural Improvement
Standards in Hillside Areas, directs the City to require rural improvement standards in hillside areas to
preserve the rural character of the hillsides. Strategy 1, Mass Grading in New Construction, would require
the City to follow natural land contour and avoid mass grading in new construction, especially in flood
hazard or hillside areas. Grading large, flat areas shall be avoided.
Existing federal, State, and local regulations, and policies and strategies of Land Use Alternative B described
throughout this chapter protect local and regional air quality. Continued compliance with these regulations
and implementation of General Plan policies and strategies, would reduce construction-related impacts to
the extent feasible. However, if uncontrolled, fugitive dust (PM10 and PM2.5) levels downwind of actively
disturbed areas during construction or overlapping construction activities could violate air quality standards
or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation and expose sensitive receptors to
elevated concentrations of pollutants during construction activities. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 CCR: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, CCR: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, CCR: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Measure AQ-2a: As part of the City’s development approval process, the City shall
require applicants for future development projects to comply with the current Bay Area Air Quality
Management District’s basic control measures for reducing construction emissions of PM10.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-53
Mitigation Measure AQ-2b: As part of the City’s development approval process the City shall
require applicants for future development projects that could generate emissions in excess of the Bay
Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMDs) current significance thresholds during
construction, as determined by project-level environmental review, when applicable, to implement the
current BAAQMD construction mitigation measures (e.g. Table 8-3 of the BAAQMD CEQA
Guidelines) or any construction mitigation measures subsequently adopted by the BAAQMD.
While Mitigation Measure AQ-2a would require adherence to the current Bay Area Air Quality Management
District’s basic control measures for reducing construction emissions of PM10 and Mitigation Measure AQ-2b
would require adherence to BAAQMD’s basic control measures for fugitive dust control and would ensure
impacts from fugitive dust generated during construction activities are less than significant, applicants for
future development in Cupertino could generate construction exhaust emissions in excess of the BAAQMD
significance thresholds. An analysis of emissions generated from the construction of specific future projects
under the General Plan would be required to evaluate emissions compared to BAAQMD’s project-level
significance thresholds during individual environmental review. It should be noted that the identification of
this program-level impact does not preclude the finding of less-than-significant impacts for subsequent
projects that comply with BAAQMD screening criter ia or meet applicable thresholds of significance.
However, due to the programmatic nature of Land Use Alternative B, no additional mitigation measures are
available and the impact is considered significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
AQ-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would result in a cumulatively
considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project
region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air
quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors).
This section analyzes potential impacts related to air quality that could occur from the buildout associated
with Land Use Alternative B in combination with the regional growth within the air basin. The SFBAAB is
currently designated a nonattainment area for California and National O3, California and National PM2.5,
and California PM10 AAQS. At a plan-level, air quality impacts are measured by the potential for a project to
exceed BAAQMD’s significance criteria and contribute to the State and Federal nonattainment designations
in the SFBAAB. Any project that produces a significant project-level regional air quality impact in an area
that is in nonattainment adds to the cumulative impact. Any project that produces a significant project-level
regional air quality impact in an area that is in nonattainment adds to the cumulative impact. Pursuant to the
CEQA Guidelines Section 15130(b)(1), cumulative impacts can be based on the growth projections in a
local General Plan. Consequently, the analysis in this chapter is Land Use Alternative B’s contribution to
cumulative impacts. Land Use Alternative B’s contribution to cumulative air quality impacts are identified
under the impact discussion in AQ-2. The analyses in these sections identify whether Land Use Alternative B
would generate a substantial increase in criteria air pollutants (Impact AQ-2). Land Use Alternative B would
generate a substantial increase in criteria air pollutant emissions from construction and operational
activities. Consequently, Impact AQ-2 identified a regional air quality impact as significant.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
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Applicable Regulations
AB 1493: Pavley Fuel Efficiency Standards
Title 20 CCR: Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 6, CCR: Building and Energy Efficiency Standards
Title 24, Part 11, CCR: Green Building Standards Code
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Mitigation Measures
There are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact.
Criteria air pollutants generated by land uses within Land Use Alternative B would cumulatively contribute
to the nonattainment designations of the SFBAAB. Construction activities associated with individual
development projects have the potential to generate substantial emissions of ROGs during application of
paints, and NOx and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) from use of heavy off-road construction equipment
and construction vehicle trips. Operation of Land Use Alternative B would generate an increase of ROGs,
NOx, PM 10, and PM2.5 from vehicle trips generated by the proposed land uses, area sources (e.g. landscape
fuel use, consumer products), and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for cooking and heating). The SFBAAB is
designated nonattainment under the California AAQS for PM10 and nonattainment under both the California
and National AAQS for PM2.5.8 Emissions of particulate matter generated by Land Use Alternative B would
contribute to the SFBAAB’s particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) nonattainment designations. The SFBAAB is
designated nonattainment of the 1-hour California AAQS and 8-hour California and National AAQS for O3.9
8 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2013. "Area Designations Maps: State and National,” updated April,
http://www.arb.ca.gov/desig/adm/adm.htm.
9 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2013. "Area Designations Maps: State and National,” updated April,
http://www.arb.ca.gov/desig/adm/adm.htm.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
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Emissions of ROGs, NOx, and particulate matter would contribute to the SFBAAB’s O3 nonattainment
designation. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
AQ-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would expose sensitive
receptors to substantial concentrations of air pollution.
Carbon Monoxide Hotspots
Areas of vehicle congestion have the potential to create pockets of Carbon Monoxide (CO) called hotspots.
These pockets have the potential to exceed the State one-hour standard of 20 parts per million (ppm) or the
eight-hour standard of 9.0 ppm. Because CO is produced in the greatest quantities from vehicle combustion
and does not readily disperse into the atmosphere, adherence to ambient air quality standards is typically
demonstrated through an analysis of localized CO concentrations. Hotspots are typically produced at
intersections, where traffic congestion is highest because vehicles queue for longer periods and are subject
to reduced speeds.
Land Use Alternative B includes policies and strategies to encourage bicycle, pedestrian, and transit use to
tie land use and transportation, which ensures consistency with VTA’s 2013 Congestion Management
Program. Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-4, Improve Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation
Throughout Cupertino, would require the City to Expand city-wide pedestrian and bicycle circulation in
order to provide improved recreation, mobility and safety. Supporting strategies include implementing the
Pedestrian Guidelines; considering developing safe, walk-able sidewalks and paths; promoting the Safe
Route to Schools program; providing additional time for pedestrians to cross streets and other pedestrian
improvements to roadways to make them more pedestrian friendly and less auto-centric; and implementing
the Bicycle Plan. Policy 4-6, Regional Trail Development, would require the City to continue to plan and
provide for a comprehensive system of trails and pathways consistent with regional systems, including the
Bay Trail, Stevens Creek Special Area and Ridge Trail and with the policies contained in the Land Use and
Community Design Element. Policy 4-7, Increased Use of Public Transit, would require the City to support
and encourage the increased use of public transit. Policy 4-9, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs, would
require the City to balance the needs of pedestrians with desired traffic service. Where necessary and
appropriate, allow a lowered LOS standard to better accommodate pedestrians on major streets and at
specific intersections. Policy 4-12, Street Improvement Planning, would require the City to plan street
improvements such as curb cuts, sidewalks, bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash
containers as an integral part of a project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of
people and vehicles with the least possible disruption to the streetscape. Policy 4-13, Safe Parking Lots,
directs the City to require parking lots that are safe for pedestrians. Policy 4-15, School Traffic Impacts on
Neighborhoods, would require the City to minimize the impact of school drop-off, pick-up and parking on
neighborhoods.
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As demonstrated by the policies above, Land Use Alternative B would be consistent with the VTA’s 2013
Congestion Management Program.10 In addition, the SFBAAB has been designated attainment under both
the national and California AAQS for CO. Under existing and future vehicle emission rates, a project would
have to increase traffic volumes at a single intersection by more than 44,000 vehicles per hour—or 24,000
vehicles per hour where vertical and/or horizontal mixing is substantially limited—in order to generate a
significant CO impact.11 Land Use Alternative B would not increase traffic volumes at affected intersections
by more than 44,000 vehicles per hour or 24,000 vehicles per hour where vertical and/or horizontal
mixing is substantially limited. Trips associated with Land Use Alternative B would not exceed the screening
criteria of the BAAQMD. Therefore, Land Use Alternative B would not have the potential to substantially
increase CO hotspots at intersections in Cupertino. Localized air quality impacts related to mobile-source
emissions would therefore be less than significant.
Toxic Air Contaminants – New Sources of Air Toxics
Various industrial and commercial processes (e.g. manufacturing, dry cleaning) allowed under the current
General Plan would be expected to release TACs. TAC emissions generated by stationary and point sources
of emissions within the SFBAAB are regulated and controlled by BAAQMD. However, emissions of TAC
from mobile sources when operating at a property (e.g. truck idling) are regulated by statewide rules and
regulations, not by BAAQMD, and have the potential to generate substantial concentrations of air pollutants.
Existing land uses that have the potential to generate substantial stationary sources of emissions that would
require a permit from BAAQMD for emissions of TACs include industrial land uses, such as chemical
processing facilities, chrome-plating facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline-dispensing facilities. Emissions of
stationary source TACs would be controlled by BAAQMD through permitting and would be subject to
further study and health risk assessment prior to the issuance of any necessary air quality permits under
BAAQMD Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review, and Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air
Contaminants.
Mobile sources of TACs are not regulated by BAAQMD. The primary mobile source of TACs within the City
of Cupertino is truck idling and use of off-road equipment at warehousing operations. Warehousing
operations could generate a substantial amount of Diesel particulate matter (DPM) emissions from off-road
equipment use and truck idling. In addition, some warehousing and industrial facilities may include use of
transport refrigeration units (TRUs) for cold storage. New land uses in the City of Cupertino that are
permitted under Land Use Alternative B that use trucks, including trucks with TRUs, could generate an
increase in DPM that would contribute to cancer and non-cancer health risk in the SFBAAB. Impacts could
occur at facilities that permit 100 or more truck trips per day or 40 or more trucks with TRUs within 1,000
feet of a sensitive land use. These new land uses could be near existing sensitive receptors within and outside
the City of Cupertino. In addition, trucks would travel on regional transportation routes through the
SFBAAB contributing to near-roadway DPM concentrations.
10 Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), 2013. 2013 Congestion Management Program, http://www.vta.org/sfc/
servlet.shepherd/version/download/068A0000001Q7pt, October.
11 Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), 2011 (Revised), CEQA Air Quality Guidelines.
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To reduce community risk and hazards from placement of new sources of air toxics, implementation of the
General Plan policies and strategies would minimize impacts. Within the Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, would require the
City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Supporting strategies requiring the City to review projects for potential generation of toxic
air contaminants at the time of approval and confer with BAAQMD on controls needed if impacts are
uncertain and assess the potential for air pollution effects of future land use and transportation planning, and
ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of improving air quality. Policy 5-6, Air Pollution
Effects of Existing Development, require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of existing
development. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility,
would require the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic,
light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks,
landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans
that reduce incompatibilities between new development and existing residential neighborhoods through
measures such as: daylight planes for single-family development, minimum setback standards, landscape
screening, acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service areas away from residential uses and
limitations on hours of operation.
General Plan Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, and the accompanying Strategy 1, Toxic
Air Contaminants, would require that projects that generate new sources of TACs would be required to
reduce emissions. However, future projects would need to ensure that they could achieve BAAQMD’s
performance standards (ten in one million [10E-06], PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3
, or the
appropriate noncancer hazard index exceeds 1.0) and consequently, mitigation is needed to ensure that new
projects are evaluated in accordance with BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines. Community risk and hazard
impacts are significant.
Toxic Air Contaminants – Siting of Sensitive Receptors
Regulation of land uses falls outside CARB jurisdiction, CARB developed and approved the Air Quality and
Land Use Handbook: A Community Health Perspective (2005) to provide guidance regarding the siting of
sensitive land uses in the vicinity of freeways, distribution centers, rail yards, ports, refineries, chrome-
plating facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline-dispensing facilities. This guidance document was developed to
assess compatibility and associated health risks when placing sensitive receptors near existing pollution
sources.
CARB’s recommendations on the siting of new sensitive land uses were based on a compilation of recent
studies that evaluated data on the adverse health effects ensuing from proximity to air pollution sources. The
key observation in these studies is that proximity to air pollution sources substantially increases both
exposure and the potential for adverse health effects. There are three carcinogenic toxic air contaminants
that constitute the majority of the known health risks from motor vehicle traffic, DPM from trucks, and
benzene and 1,3-butadiene from passenger vehicles. Table 4.2-9, CARB Recommendations for Siting New
Sensitive Land Uses, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, shows a summary of CARB
recommendations for siting new sensitive land uses within the vicinity of air-pollutant sources.
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Recommendations in Table 4.2-9 are based on data that show that localized air pollution exposures can be
reduced by as much as 80 percent by following CARB minimum distance separations.
Local air pollution sources in the City of Cupertino include mobile (roadways, including SR 85 and I-280)
and stationary/area sources (industrial, warehousing, commercial/retail, institutional, and residential land
uses). Figure 4.2-3, Sources of Toxic Air Contaminants in the City of Cupertino, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality,
of this Draft EIR, identifies several major areas of the city that have the potential to expose sensitive
receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations within 1,000 feet of the sources identified.
Stationary sources in Cupertino were identified using BAAQMD’s Stationary Source Screening Analysis
Tool. There are approximately 86 potential stationary sources in or near the City of Cupertino. Of these
sources, approximately 4 are industrial uses, 25 emergency diesel generators, 4 auto body repair and
refinishing facilities, 23 gas stations, 13 dry cleaners, and 17 miscellaneous sources (e.g. technology
companies, city services, printing shops, furniture refinishing, etc.).
High-volume roadways with over 10,000 vehicles per day were also mapped using the California
Environmental Health Tracking Program’s (CEHTP’s) Traffic Linkage web service and 2040 traffic
projections from the traffic analysis prepared by Hexagon Transportation Consultants.12 A total of 13
high volume roadways were identified within 1,000 feet of the City, including I-280 and SR 85.
The Union Pacific (UP) rail line is included in Figure 4.2-3 since UP uses diesel-fueled locomotives, which
are a source of TAC emissions. Figure 4.2-3, Sources of Toxic Air Contaminants in the City of Cupertino, in
Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, also identifies a 500-foot screening area around high-volume roadways and a 200-
foot screening area for rail lines. Because these are screening distances, refined analysis of the effects from
many of the high volume roadways and rail lines may show much lower potential TAC exposure and smaller
buffer zones. A refined analysis or site-specific health risk assessment should be conducted for all new
sensitive sources that are sited within this area to determine the actual health impact. The following current
and amended General Plan policies and strategies would minimize emissions:
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would minimize emissions. Within the
Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-5: Air Pollution Effects of New Development,
would require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts
affecting new development. Supporting strategy 3 and 4 require the City to assess the potential for air
pollution effects of future land use and transportation planning, and ensure that planning decisions support
regional goals of improving air quality, and evaluate the relationship of sensitive receptors, such as
convalescent hospitals and residential uses, to pollution sources through the environmental assessment of
new development. Within the Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-28, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous
Materials, would require the City to assess future residents’ exposure to hazardous materials when new
residential development of childcare facilities are proposed in existing industrial and manufacturing areas.
Do not allow residential development if such hazardous conditions cannot be mitigated to an acceptable
level of risk. In addition, Land Use Element Policy 2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility, would require the
City to minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually
12 California Environmental Health Tracking Program (CEHTP), 2013. Traffic linkage web service. http://www.ehib.org/
traffic_tool.jsp.
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PLACEWORKS 5.3-59
intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls,
limitations, site design and other appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans that reduce
incompatibilities between new development and existing residential neighborhoods through measures such
as: daylight planes for single-family development, minimum setback standards, landscape screening,
acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service areas away from residential uses and limitations on
hours of operation.
Implementation of General Plan Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, its accompanying
Strategy 4, Environmental Review, and Policy 6-28, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous Materials, would
reduce impacts from placement of sensitive receptors proximate to major sources of air pollution. However,
future projects proximate to major sources of air pollution (i.e. when within 1,000 feet of an industrial
area) would need to ensure that they could achieve BAAQMD’s performance standards (ten in one million
[10E-06], PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3
, or the appropriate noncancer hazard index exceeds 1.0)
and consequently, mitigation is needed to ensure that when new projects are evaluated in accordance with
BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines. Consequently, impacts are significant.
Applicable Regulations
CARB Rule 2485 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2485), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
Diesel-Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling
CARB Rule 2480 (13 CCR Chapter 10, Section 2480), Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit
School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools
CARB Rule 2477 (13 CCR Section 2477 and Article 8), Airborne Toxic Control Measure for In-Use
Diesel-Fueled Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU) and TRU Generator Sets and Facilities Where TRUs
Operate
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 2, New Source Review
BAAQMD, Regulation 2, Rule 5, New Source Review of Toxic Air Contaminants
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 1, General Requirements
BAAQMD Regulation 6, Rule 2, Commercial Cooking Equipment
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 3, Architectural Coatings
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 4, General Solvent and Surface Coatings Operations
BAAQMD Regulation 8, Rule 7, Gasoline Dispensing Facilities
BAAQMD Regulation 11, Rule 2, Asbestos, Demolition, Renovation and Manufacturing
Mitigation Measure
Mitigation Measure AQ-4a: Applicants for future non-residential land uses within the city that: 1)
have the potential to generate 100 or more diesel truck trips per day or have 40 or more trucks with
operating diesel-powered TRUs, and 2) are within 1,000 feet of a sensitive land use (e.g. residential,
schools, hospitals, nursing homes), as measured from the property line of Land Use Alternative B to the
property line of the nearest sensitive use, shall submit a health risk assessment (HRA) to the City of
Cupertino prior to future discretionary Project approval. The HRA shall be prepared in accordance with
policies and procedures of the State Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment and the Bay
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Area Air Quality Management District. If the HRA shows that the incremental cancer risk exceeds ten
in one million (10E-06), PM2.5 concentrations exceed 0.3 µg/m3, or the appropriate noncancer hazard
index exceeds 1.0, the applicant will be required to identify and demonstrate that Best Available
Control Technologies for Toxics (T-BACTs) are capable of reducing potential cancer and noncancer risks
to an acceptable level, including appropriate enforcement mechanisms. T-BACTs may include but are
not limited to:
Restricting idling on-site.
Electrifying warehousing docks.
Requiring use of newer equipment and/or vehicles.
Restricting offsite truck travel through the creation of truck routes.
T-BACTs identified in the HRA shall be identified as mitigation measures in the environmental
document and/or incorporated into the site development plan as a component of Land Use
Alternative B.
Mitigation Measure AQ-4b: Applicants for residential and other sensitive land use projects (e.g.
hospitals, nursing homes, day care centers) in Cupertino within 1,000 feet of a major sources of TACs
(e.g. warehouses, industrial areas, freeways, and roadways with traffic volumes over 10,000 vehicle per
day), as measured from the property line of the project to the property line of the source/edge of the
nearest travel lane, shall submit a health risk assessment (HRA) to the City of Cupertino prior to future
discretionary Project approval. The HRA shall be prepared in accordance with policies and procedures
of the State Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) and the Bay Area Air Quality
Management District. The latest OEHHA guidelines shall be used for the analysis, including age
sensitivity factors, breathing rates, and body weights appropriate for children age 0 to 16 years. If the
HRA shows that the incremental cancer risk exceeds ten in one million (10E-06), PM2.5 concentrations
exceed 0.3 μg/m3, or the appropriate noncancer hazard index exceeds 1.0, the applicant will be
required to identify and demonstrate that mitigation measures are capable of reducing potential cancer
and non-cancer risks to an acceptable level (i.e. below ten in one million or a hazard index of 1.0),
including appropriate enforcement mechanisms. Measures to reduce risk may include but are not
limited to:
Air intakes located away from high volume roadways and/or truck loading zones.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems of the buildings provided with appropriately sized
Maximum Efficiency Rating Value (MERV) filters.
Mitigation measures identified in the HRA shall be identified as mitigation measures in the environmental
document and/or incorporated into the site development plan as a component of Land Use Alternative B.
The air intake design and MERV filter requirements shall be noted and/or reflected on all building plans
submitted to the City and shall be verified by the City’s Planning Division.
Buildout of the Land Use Alternative B could result in new sources of criteria air pollutant emissions and/or
toxic air contaminants near existing or planned sensitive receptors. Existing and Land Use Alternative B
policies would reduce concentrations of TACs and PM2.5 generated by new development. Review of projects
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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by BAAQMD for permitted sources of air toxics (e.g. industrial facilities, dry cleaners, and gasoline
dispensing facilities) would ensure health risks are minimized. Mitigation Measure AQ-4a would ensure
mobile sources of TACs not covered under BAAQMD permits are considered during subsequent project-
level environmental review. Development of individual projects would be required to achieve the
incremental risk thresholds established by BAAQMD, and impacts would be less than significant. Placement
of new sensitive receptors near major sources of TACs and PM2.5 could expose people to substantial
pollutant concentrations. Existing and Land Use Alternative B policies would reduce concentrations of
criteria air pollutant emissions and air toxics generated by new development. Mitigation Measure AQ-4b
would ensure that placement of sensitive receptors near major sources of air pollution would achieve the
incremental risk thresholds established by BAAQMD, and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
AQ-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would result in a cumulatively
considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project
region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air
quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors).
Sources of objectionable odors may occur within the City. BAAQMD’s Regulation 7, Odorous Substances,
places general limitations on odorous substances and specific emission limitations on certain odorous
compounds. In addition, odors are also regulated under BAAQMD Regulation 1, Rule 1-301, Public
Nuisance, which states that “no person shall discharge from any source whatsoever such quantities of air
contaminants or other material which cause injury, detriment, nuisance or annoyance to any considerable
number of persons or the public; or which endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of any such
persons or the public, or which causes, or has a natural tendency to cause, injury or damage to business or
property.” Under BAAQMD’s Rule 1-301, a facility that receives three or more violation notices within a 30
day period can be declared a public nuisance.
There are two types of odor impacts: 1) siting sensitive receptors near nuisance odors, and 2) siting new
sources of nuisance odors near sensitive receptors. Table 4.2-10, BAAQMD Odor Screening Distances, in
Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, identifies screening distances from potential sources of
objectionable odors within the SFBAAB. Odors from these types of land uses are regulated under BAAQMD
Regulation 7, Odorous Substances.13
Siting Receptors Proximate to Odor Sources
Sensitive receptors, such as the residential uses associated with planned development under Land Use
Alternative B, may be placed within the distances to these sources specified in Table 4.2-10. In general, the
13 It should be noted that while restaurants can generate odors, these sources are not identified by BAAQMD as nuisance odors since
they typically do not generate significant odors that affect a substantial number people. Larger restaurants that employ five or more people are
subject to BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances.
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City’s land use plan designates residential areas and commercial/industrial areas of the City to prevent
potential mixing of incompatible land use types, with the exception of mixed-use areas that combine
commercial with residential. BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances, would require abatement of any
nuisance generated by an odor complaint. Implementation of the Policy 2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility,
would require the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic,
light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with adequate buffering setbacks,
landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures. Create zoning or specific plans
that reduce incompatibilities between new development and existing residential neighborhoods through
measures such as daylight planes for single-family development, minimum setback standards, landscape
screening, acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service areas away from residential uses, and
limitations on hours of operation.
Because existing sources of odors are required to comply with BAAQMD Regulation 7, impacts to siting of
new sensitive land uses would be less then significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Health & Safety Code, Section 114149
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Siting New Odor Sources
While not all sources in Table 4.2-10, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, are found in the City
(e.g. rendering plants, confined animal facilities), commercial and industrial areas in the City of Cupertino
have the potential to include land uses that generate objectionable odors. Buildout permitted under Land
Use Alternative B could include new sources of odors, such as composting, greenwaste, and recycling
operations; food processing; chemical manufacturing; and painting/coating operations, because these are
permitted uses in the commercial and/or industrial areas in the City. Future environmental review could be
required for industrial projects listed in Table 4.2-8, in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, to ensure
that sensitive land uses are not exposed to objectionable odors. BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous
Substances, would require abatement of any nuisance generating an odor complaint. Typical abatement
includes passing air through a drying agent followed by two successive beds of activated carbon to generate
odor-free air. Facilities listed in Table 4.2-10 in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, would need to
consider measures to reduce odors as part of their CEQA review. Implementation of the following Land Use
Alternative B policies would also reduce potential land use incompatibilities:
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would also reduce potential land use
incompatibilities regarding objectionable odors. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy
2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility, would require the City to minimize potential conflicts with residential
neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments with
adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate measures.
Create zoning or specific plans that reduce incompatibilities between new development and existing
residential neighborhoods through measures such as: daylight planes for single-family development,
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minimum setback standards, landscape screening, acoustical analysis, location and orientation of service
areas away from residential uses and limitations on hours of operation. Within the Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-5, Air Pollution Effects of New Development, would require the
City to minimize the air quality impacts of new development projects and the impacts affecting new
development. Supporting strategies 3 and 4, require the City to assess the potential for air pollution effects
of future land use and transportation planning, and ensure that planning decisions support regional goals of
improving air quality, and evaluate the relationship of sensitive receptors, such as convalescent hospitals and
residential uses, to pollution sources through the environmental assessment of new development.
Consequently, review of projects using BAAQMD’s odor screening distances during future CEQA review
and compliance with BAAQMD Regulation 7 would ensure that odor impacts are minimized and are less
than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Health & Safety Code, Section 114149
BAAQMD Regulation 7, Odorous Substances
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
AQ-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to air quality.
As described under AQ-3, regional air quality impacts were identified as significant; therefore, in
combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, Land Use Alternative B, even with
mandatory compliance with applicable regulations, as well as, the mitigation measures and General Plan
policies outlined above, would result in a significant cumulative impact with respect to air quality .
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
5.3.7.3 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
BIO-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have a substantial
adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on species
identified as a candidate, sensitive or special status species in local or
regional plans, policies, or regulations by the California Department of Fish
and Wildlife, or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Development and land use activities consistent with the implementation of Land Use Alternative B
components would occur in urbanized areas where special-status species are generally not expected to
occur. The potential for occurrence of special-status species in developed areas is generally very remote in
comparison to undeveloped lands with natural habitat that contain essential habitat characteristics for the
range of species known from the west Cupertino vicinity.
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The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would minimize impacts to special-
status species associated with potential future development under Land Use Alternative B. Policy 5-9,
Development Near Sensitive Areas, would require the City to encourage the clustering of new development
away from sensitive areas such as riparian corridors, wildlife habitat and corridors, public open space
preserves and ridgelines. Additionally, new developments in these areas must have a harmonious landscaping
plan approved prior to development. Strategy 1, Riparian Corridor Protection, directs the City to require
riparian corridor protection through the development approval process. Policy 5-10, Landscaping Near
Natural Vegetation, would require the City to, per the City’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance,
Environmentally Preferable Procurement Policy, and the Parks & Recreation Green Policies, continue to
Emphasize drought tolerant and pest resistant native and non-invasive, nonnative, drought tolerant plants
and ground covers when landscaping properties near natural vegetation, particularly for control of erosion
from disturbance to the natural terrain. The strategy for this policy, Native Plants, would require the City to
encourage drought tolerant native and drought tolerant, noninvasive, non-native plants and trees, and
minimize lawn area in the hillsides. Policy 5-14, Recreation and Wildlife Trails, would require the City to
provide open space linkages within and between properties for both recreational and wildlife activities, most
specifically for the benefit of wildlife that is threatened, endangered, or designated as species of special
concern. Policy 5-18, Natural Water Bodies and Drainage Systems, would require the City to require that
site design respect the natural topography and drainages to the extent practicable to reduce the amount of
grading necessary and limit disturbance to natural water bodies and natural drainage systems caused by
development including roads, highways, and bridges. Strategy 1 for this policy, Volunteer Program, would
require the City to encourage volunteer organizations to help restore and clean creek beds in Cupertino to
reduce pollution and help return waterways to their natural state. Policy 5-21, Compact Development Away
from Sensitive Areas, would require the City to, where such measures do not conflict with other municipal
purposes or goals, encourage, via zoning ordinances, compact development located away from creeks,
wetlands, and other sensitive areas. Policy 5-27, Natural Water Courses, would require the City to retain
and restore creek beds, riparian corridors, watercourses and associated vegetation in their natural state to
protect wildlife habitat and recreation potential and assist groundwater percolation. Encourage land
acquisition dedication of such areas. Strategy 4 under Proposed Policy 2-20, Streetscape Design, would be
amended to direct the City to use native trees when conducting new or replacement street tree planting.
This policy would serve to improve urban habitat for native and special-status species.
However, some special-status bird species such as Cooper’s hawk and white-tailed kite could utilize the
remaining riparian corridors and heavily wooded areas for nesting, dispersal and other functions when they
pass through urbanized areas. More common birds protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act
(MBTA) may nest in trees and other landscaping on the Project Component sites. Preconstruction surveys
are typically required to confirm that no bird nests in active use are present when tree and vegetation
removal is to occur during the bird-nesting season (February 1 to August 31). Given the remote potential
for occurrence of nesting birds at one or more of the project component sites and possibility that nests
could be inadvertently destroyed or nests abandoned as a result of construction activities, this would be
considered a potentially significant impact.
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Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measure is recommended to minimize the possible loss or abandonment of nests of
birds protected under the federal MBTA and California Department of Fish and Game code:
Mitigation Measure BIO-1: Nests of raptors and other birds shall be protected when in active use,
as required by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the California Department of Fish and Game
Code. If construction activities and any required tree removal occur during the breeding season
(February 1 and August 31), a qualified biologist shall be required to conduct surveys prior to tree
removal or construction activities. Preconstruction surveys are not required for tree removal or
construction activities outside the nesting period. If construction would occur during the nesting season
(February 1 to August 31), preconstruction surveys shall be conducted no more than 14 days prior to
the start of tree removal or construction. Preconstruction surveys shall be repeated at 14-day intervals
until construction has been initiated in the area after which surveys can be stopped. Locations of active
nests containing viable eggs or young birds shall be documented and protective measures implemented
under the direction of the qualified biologist until the nests no longer contain eggs or young birds.
Protective measures shall include establishment of clearly delineated exclusion zones (i.e. demarcated
by identifiable fencing, such as orange construction fencing or equivalent) around each nest location as
determined by a qualified biologist, taking into account the species of birds nesting, their tolerance for
disturbance and proximity to existing development. In general, exclusion zones shall be a minimum of
300 feet for raptors and 75 feet for passerines and other birds. The active nest within an exclusion zone
shall be monitored on a weekly basis throughout the nesting season to identify signs of disturbance and
confirm nesting status. The radius of an exclusion zone may be increased by the qualified biologist if
project activities are determined to be adversely affecting the nesting birds. Exclusion zones may be
reduced by the qualified biologist only in consultation with CDFW. The protection measures shall
remain in effect until the young have left the nest and are foraging independently or the nest is no
longer active.
With the incorporation of the above Mitigation Measure BIO-1, this impact on special-status and non-
special status bird species that are protected under the federal MBTA and CDFG Code would be less than
significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have a substantial
adverse effect on riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the
California Department of Fish and Wildlife, or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service.
Development and land use activities consistent with Land Use Alternative B would occur in urbanized areas
where sensitive natural communities are absent; therefore, no impact would occur.
Significance Without Mitigation: No impact.
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BIO-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have a substantial
adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool,
coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or
other means.
Development and land use activities consistent with Land Use Alternative B Components would occur in
urbanized areas where jurisdictional waters are absent. Indirect impacts to wetlands and jurisdictional other
waters include: 1) an increase in the potential for sedimentation due to construction grading and ground
disturbance, 2) an increase in the potential for erosion due to increased runoff volumes generated by
impervious surfaces, and 3) an increase in the potential for water quality degradation due to increased levels
in non-point pollutants. However, indirect impacts could be largely avoided through effective
implementation of Best Management Practices during construction and compliance with water quality
controls. As discussed in Section 4.8.1.1, Regulatory Framework, Chapter 4.9, Hydrology and Water
Quality, of this Draft EIR, water quality in stormwater runoff is regulated locally by the Santa Clara Valley
Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP), which includes provision C.3 of the Municipal
Regional Storm Water National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit (MRP), adopted
by the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). Adherence to these permit
conditions would require new development or redevelopment projects to incorporate treatment measures,
an agreement to maintain them, and other appropriate source control and site design features that reduce
pollutants in runoff to the maximum extent practicable. Many of the requirements involve low impact
development (LID) practices such as the use of onsite infiltration that reduce pollutant loading.
Incorporation of these measures can even improve on existing conditions.
In addition, future development would be required to comply with the NPDES Permit (Municipal Code
Chapter 9.18, Stormwater Pollution Prevention and Watershed Protection) and implement a construction
SWPPP that require the incorporation of BMPs to control sedimentation, erosion, and hazardous materials
contamination of runoff during construction.
The indirect water quality-related issues are discussed further in Chapter 4.9, Hydrology and Water Quality,
of this Draft EIR. As discussed in Impact HYDRO-1, water quality impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not interfere substantially
with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife
species, or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors,
or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites.
Development and land use activities consistent with Land Use Alternative B Components would occur in
urbanized areas where sensitive wildlife resources and important wildlife movement corridors are no longer
present because of existing development. Wildlife species common to urban and suburban habitat could be
displaced where existing structures are demolished and landscaping is removed as part of future
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development, but these species are relatively abundant, and adapted to human disturbance. Compliance with
the General Plan policies and strategies would ensure that new structures and landscaping installed as part
of future development would provide replacement habitat for wildlife species adapted to urban areas.
Additionally, Strategy 4 under Proposed Policy 2-20, Streetscape Design, would require the City to use
native trees when conducting new or replacement street tree planting. This policy would serve to improve
urban habitat linkages for migration of native and special-status species. Potential impacts on the movement
of fish and wildlife, wildlife corridors, or wildlife nursery sites would be considered less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not conflict with any
local polices or ordinances protecting biological resources.
Development and land use activities consistent with Land Use Alternative B would occur in urbanized areas
where sensitive biological and wetland resources are generally considered to be absent, and no major
conflicts with the relevant policies or ordinances in the Cupertino General Plan and/or Municipal Code, as
described in section 4.3.1, Environmental Setting, Chapter 4.3, Biological Resources, of this Draft EIR, are
anticipated.
With adherence to the General Plan policies listed in impact discussion BIO-1, and the Protected Tree
Ordinance and Water Protection Ordinance, no conflicts with local plans and policies are anticipated, and
impacts would be considered less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
BIO-6 Implementation of Land Use Alter native B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to biological resources.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative B within the Cupertino city boundary
and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG). The
geographic scope of the cumulative analysis for biological resources considers the surrounding incorporated
and unincorporated lands, and the region.
The potential impacts of proposed development on biological resources tend to be site-specific, and the
overall cumulative effect would be dependent on the degree to which significant vegetation and wildlife
resources are protected on a particular site. This includes preservation of well-developed native vegetation
(native grasslands, oak woodlands, riparian woodland, etc.), populations of special-status plant or animal
species, and wetland features (including freshwater seeps and tributary drainages).
To some degree, cumulative development contributes to an incremental reduction in the amount of existing
wildlife habitat, particularly for birds and larger mammals. Habitat for species intolerant of human
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disturbance can be lost as development encroaches into previously undeveloped areas, disrupting or
eliminating movement corridors and fragmenting the remaining suitable habitat retained within parks,
private open space, or undeveloped properties. New development in the region would result in further
conversion of existing natural habitats to urban and suburban conditions, limiting the existing habitat values
of the surrounding area. This could include further loss of wetlands and sensitive natural communities,
reduction in essential habitat for special-status species, removal of mature native trees and other important
wildlife habitat features, and obstruction of important wildlife movement corridors. Additional
development may also contribute to degradation of the aquatic habitat in the creeks throughout the region,
including the Project Study Area.
Grading associated with construction activities generally increases erosion and sedimentation, and urban
pollutants from new development would reduce water quality. However, most of the parcels within the
Project Component locations are already developed and occur within urbanized areas, thus avoiding or
diminishing effects on biological resources. With implementation of the Mitigation Measure BIO-1
identified above, Land Use Alternative B would not make a significant contribution to cumulative impacts to
biological resources. Therefore, Land Use Alternative B would result in a less-than-significant cumulative
impact on biological resources.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.3.7.4 CULTURAL RESOURCES
CULT-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have the potential to
cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical
resource as defined in Section 15064.5.
The types of cultural resources that meet the definition of historical resources under CEQA generally
consist of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant for their traditional, cultural,
and/or historical associations. Historical architectural resources may be impacted by development allowed
under the current General Plan. Archaeological deposits are addressed in CULT-2, and human remains are
addressed below in impact discussion CULT-4, below.
As shown on Figure 4.4-1 and listed in Section 4.4.2.3, Historic Sites Within Project Components, in
Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR, several historical resources are within the boundaries of
some Cultural Resource Sites. Therefore, implementation of this Alternative could have the potential to
directly impact cultural resources, by increasing commercial, office, hotel, and residential development
allocations and providing for potential new development at the following Cultural Resource Sites:
Major Mixed-Use Special Areas
South De Anza Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 15 (Not evaluated for National and/or California Register eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 58 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
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Heart of the City Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 19 (National Register/California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 25 (Local Landmark, National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 31 (Ineligible for National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 32 (California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 42 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 43 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 44 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 57 (National Register/Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 59 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 60 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 64 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 65 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 67 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 6814 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
North De Anza Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 66 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Study Areas
Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District)
Cultural Resource Site 6815 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Other Special Areas including Residential and Non-Residential/Mixed-Use
Special Areas
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood
Cultural Resource Site 52 (California Register/Eligible for National Register)
Cultural Resource Site 53 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 54 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 62 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
Bubb Road Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 55 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
14 Cultural Resource Site 68 is also in Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District ) and Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Mall).
15 Cultural Resource Site 68 is also in Heart of the City Special Area and Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Mall).
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Housing Element Sites
Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except Rosebowl)
Cultural Resource Site 6816 (City of Cupertino Community Landmark)
General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites
Cultural Resource Site 41 (City of Cupertino Local Historic Site)
Cultural Resource Site 49 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Cultural Resource Site 50 (City of Cupertino Commemorative Site)
Where Cultural Resource Sites listed above and their immediate surroundings do not contain properties
currently on the California Register or appear to be eligible for listing on the California Register, as
described above, impacts from implementation of this Alternative would result in less-than-significant
impacts on historical resources at these sites. However, for Cultural Resource Sites that contain properties
currently on the California Register or appear to be eligible for listing on the California Register where the
historical buildings might be demolished or materially altered to allow future development, this Alternative
would cause significant impacts. The following Cultural Resource Sites could be impacted by future
development under Land Use Alternative B:
Heart of the City Special Area
Cultural Resource Site 19 (National Register/California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 25 (Local Landmark, National Register/Not evaluated for California Register
eligibility)
Cultural Resource Site 32 (California Register/Local Landmark)
Cultural Resource Site 57 (National Register/Commemorative Site)
Monta Vista Village Neighborhood
Cultural Resource Site 52 (California Register/Eligible for National Register)
Even if the historical resources were retained, future development under the Land Use Alternative B
permitted by the General Plan could cause a significant impact on the historical resource in question if the
new construction were incompatible with the Cultural Resources Site relationships that characterize the
existing property (for example, new construction which extends to all property lines where the historical
pattern is to have setbacks), or if the massing (height and bulk) of the new construction were incompatible
with the historical resource. Lastly, the design characteristics and materials of the new construction could
cause an impact on adjoining or nearby historical buildings (for example, a flat-roofed building with
aluminum windows and a rain-screen wall finish next to a gable-roofed building with period-revival stucco
walls). Because the purpose of the Alternative is to allow denser new development and because the factors
described above which could impair the historic integrity of resources are generally more important with
larger and denser new construction, the impacts on historical resources could be significant.
16 Cultural Resource Site 68 is also in Heart of the City Special Area and Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District).
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However, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would minimize potential
impacts to historic resources. Policy 2-66, Historic Sites, would require future development projects under
Land Use Alternative B that would occur on Historic Sites to meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standard
for Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, and Restoring Historic
Buildings and provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the
historic significance of the resource(s). The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was
built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the
information. For public and quasi-public sites, the City shall coordinate with property owner to allow public
access of the historical site to foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-
owned sites, property owners should be encouraged, but not required, to provide access to the public.
Strategy 1 states that as part of the development review process for projects proposing to demolish or
significantly alter existing building(s) more than 45 years old, city staff shall determine if the project is
subject to completion of a site-specific historic resources study. Strategy 2 states that if it is determined that
a site-specific historic resources study is required, the study shall be prepared by a qualified architectural
historian meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Architecture or Architectural History. Site-
specific historic resource studies required under Strategy 1 could include a records search of the California
Historical Resources Information System, an intensive-level pedestrian field survey, an evaluation of
significance using standard National Register Historic Preservation and California Register Historic
Preservation evaluation criteria, and recordation of all identified historic buildings and structures on
California Department of Parks and Recreation 523 Site Record forms. These studies also provide a
description of the historic context and setting, methods used in the investigation, results of the evaluation,
and recommendations for management of identified resources. When applicable, the specific requirements
for inventory areas and documentation format required by certain agencies, such as the Federal Highway
Administration and California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), would also be required to be
adhered to. Where future development or adjacent properties are found to be eligible for listing on the
California Register, Policy 2-67, Commemorative Sites, would require that projects on Commemorative
Sites are required to provide a plaque, reader board and/or other educational tool on the site to explain the
historic significance of the resource. The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was
built, a written description and photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the
information. For public and quasi-public sites, the City shall coordinate with property owner to allow public
access to the historical site to foster public awareness and provide educational opportunities. For privately-
owned sites, property owners should be encouraged, but not required, to provide access to the public.
Policy 2-68, Community Landmarks, would require that projects on Landmark Sites provide a plaque,
reader board and/or other educational tools on the site to explain the historic significance of the resource.
The plaque shall include the city seal, name of resource, date it was built, a written description and
photograph and shall be placed in a location where the public can view the information. Policy 2-69,
Historic Mention/Interest Sites, would require the City to encourage agencies that have jurisdiction over
the historical resource to encourage rehabilitation of the resource and provide public access to foster public
awareness and provide educational opportunities. These are sites outside the City’s jurisdictions, but have
contributed to the City’s historic past. Policy 2-70, Incentives for Preservation of Historic Resources, would
require the City to utilize a variety of techniques to serve as incentives toward fostering the preservation
and rehabilitation of Historic Sites including; 1) allowing flexible interpretation of zoning ordinance not
essential to public health and safety. This could include flexibility as to use, parking requirements and/or
setback requirements; 2) using the California Building Code for rehabilitation of historic structures; 3) tax
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rebates; and 4) financial incentives such as grants/loans to assist rehabilitation efforts. Policy 2-71,
Recognizing Historical Resources, states that an inventory of historically significant structures shall be
maintained and periodically updated by the City in order to promote awareness of these community
resources. Finally, Policy 2-71 would require the City to maintain an inventory of historically significant
structures and periodically updated in order to promote awareness of these community resources.
Furthermore, as part of Land Use Alternative B, Site 23, the Seven Springs Ranch, would be added to the
City’s list of Historically Significant Resources, which would further protect historic resources.
Potential impacts from future development on historical architectural resources could lead to: 1)
demolition, which by definition results in the material impairment of a resource’s ability to convey its
significance; 2) inappropriate modification, which may use incompatible materials, designs, or construction
techniques in a manner that alters character-defining features; and 3)Inappropriate new construction, which
could introduce incompatible new buildings that clash with an established architectural context. While any
of these scenarios, especially demolition and alteration, have the potential to change the historic fabric or
setting of an architectural resource such that the resource’s ability to convey its significance may be
materially impaired, implementation of the General Plan policies and strategies identified above, as well as
compliance with federal and State laws, as described in Section 4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, above,
would ensure future development would not be detrimental or injurious to property or improvements in
the vicinity and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have the potential to
cause substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to Section 15064.5.
Historical and pre-contact archaeological deposits that meet the definition of historical resources under
CEQA could be damaged or destroyed by ground-disturbing activities associated with future development
allowed under Land Use Alternative B. Should this occur, the ability of the deposits to convey their
significance, either as containing information important in prehistory or history, or as possessing traditional
or cultural significance to Native American or other descendant communities, would be materially impaired.
Although future development would be likely occur on sites and in areas either already developed, and/or in
close proximity to existing residential and residential-serving development, where development would have
a lesser impact on historical archeological resources, the potential remains that archaeological deposits
could be discovered because this Alternative would result in development on, or within the vicinity of,
several identified cultural resources as shown on Figure 4.4-1, and identified in Section 4.4.2.3, Historic
Sites Within Project Components, in Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR. In addition, the
City of Cupertino in its entirety has not been systematically surveyed, and much of the land remains
unsurveyed. Approximately 25 percent of the land within the city boundary and existing Sphere of Influence
(SOI) has been surveyed for cultural resources. Therefore, it is possible that unrecorded Native American
prehistoric archaeological sites exist throughout the city that may have not been identified or surveyed,
including those that are buried under alluvial or fill soils due to the age of geologic deposits within the city,
which have the potential to contain prehistoric archaeological resources. Furthermore, prior to its
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development, much of the land within Cupertino was used as ranches and/or vineyards. Therefore, there is
a potential for significant subsurface historical archaeological features, including hollow-filled features (e.g.
privies and wells) and other historic debris.
Although soils throughout the city and any potential historic features have been disturbed by farming
operations and grading and trenching for development of existing buildings and structures, future
development permitted under this Alternative could still contain subsurface archaeological deposits. Any
ground-disturbing activities related to future development permitted under this Alternative have the
potential to affect subsurface prehistoric archaeological resources that may be present. Based on the
significance criteria identified above, future development permitted under this Alternative would have a
significant impact on the environment if these ground-disturbing activities cause a substantial adverse change
in the significance of a historical archaeological resource. A substantial adverse change in the significance of
an historical archaeological resource would occur from its demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration
such that the significance of the resource would be materially impaired (CEQA Guidelines Section
15064.5(b)(1)).
The General Plan includes a policy and supporting strategies that would protect archaeologically sensitive
areas and would provide for the identification of archaeological deposits prior to actions that may disturb
such deposits. Policy 2-72, Archaeologically Sensitive Areas, protects archaeologically sensitive areas and
would provide for the identification of archaeological deposits prior to actions that may disturb such
deposits. Policy 2-72 would require the City to protect archaeologically sensitive areas, through supporting
Strategy 1, which would require an investigation for development proposed in areas likely to be
archaeologically sensitive, such as along stream courses and in oak groves, to determine if significant
archaeological resources may be affected by the project. This strategy also would require appropriate
mitigation measures in the project design. In addition, Strategy 2 would require the City to ensure that City,
State, and Federal historic preservations laws, regulations, and Codes are enforced, including laws related to
archaeological and paleontological resources, to ensure the adequate protection of historic and pre-historic
resources. Therefore, compliance of the General Plan policy and strategies above, and with federal and State
laws described in Section 4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, above, potential impacts would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have the potential to
directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site, or
unique geologic feature.
A review of the University of California’s Museum of Paleontology’s (UCMP) fossil locality database was
conducted for the city. No paleontological resources have been identified within the Cultural Resource
Sites; however, the presence of Pleistocene deposits that are known to contain fossils indicates that the city
could contain paleontological resources.
Consequently, future development permitted under Land Use Alternative B, would have a significant effect
on the environment if it would directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-74 JUNE 18, 2014
Although implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not in and of itself result in direct physical
development, future development as a result of implementation of this Alternative could result in
potentially significant impacts to a unique paleontological resources or site, or unique geologic feature.
Policy 2-72, Archaeologically Sensitive Areas, would require the City to protect paleontological sensitive
areas, through supporting Strategy 2, which would require the City to ensure that City, State, and Federal
historic preservations laws, regulations, and Codes are enforced, including laws related to archaeological
and paleontological resources, to ensure the adequate protection of historic and pre-historic resources.
Therefore, compliance Policy 2-72 along with compliance with federal and State laws described in Section
4.4.1.1, Regulatory Framework, above, would minimize the potential impact related to directly or
indirectly destroying a unique paleontological resource or site relating to construction and other ground-
disturbing activities associated with future development, would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have the potential to
disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal
cemeteries.
Human remains associated with pre-contact archaeological deposits could exist in throughout Cupertino,
and could be encountered at the time potential future development occurs. The associated ground-
disturbing activities, such as site grading and trenching for utilities, have the potential to disturb human
remains interred outside of formal cemeteries. Descendant communities may ascribe religious or cultural
significance to such remains, and may view their disturbance as an unmitigable impact. Disturbance of
unknown human remains would be a significant impact.
However, any human remains encountered during ground-disturbing activities associated with future
development permitted under this Alternative would be subject to federal, State, and local regulations, such
as the California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, Public Resources Code Section 5097.98, and the
California Code of Regulations Section 15064.5(e) (CEQA), which state the mandated procedures of
conduct following the discovery of human remains.
Moreover, any human remains encountered during ground-disturbing activities associated with future
development under implementation of Land Use Alternative B would be subject to federal, State, and local
regulations, such as the California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, Public Resources Code Section
5097.98, and the CCR Section 15064.5(e) (CEQA), which state the mandated procedures of conduct
following the discovery of human remains. According to the provisions in CEQA, if human remains are
encountered at the site, all work in the immediate vicinity of the discovery shall cease and necessary steps to
ensure the integrity of the immediate area shall be taken. The Santa Clara County Coroner shall be notified
immediately. The Coroner shall then determine whether the remains are Native American. If the Coroner
determines the remains are Native American, the Coroner shall notify the NAHC within 24 hours, who
will, in turn, notify the person the NAHC identifies as the MLD of any human remains. Further actions shall
be determined, in part, by the desires of the MLD. The MLD has 48 hours to make recommendations
regarding the disposition of the remains following notification from the NAHC of the discovery. If the MLD
does not make recommendations within 48 hours, the owner shall, with appropriate dignity, reinter the
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-75
remains in an area of the property secure from further disturbance. Alternatively, if the owner does not
accept the MLD’s recommendations, the owner or the descendent may request mediation by the NAHC. In
addition, Policy 2-73, Native American Burials, would require the City to protect Native American burial
sites and the supporting strategy would require that upon the discovery of such burials during construction,
project applicants shall take action prescribed by State law.
Therefore, with the mandatory regulatory procedures and compliance with the General Plan policy and
strategy described above, potential impacts related to the potential discovery or disturbance to any human
remains accidently unearthed during construction activities associated with future development as a result
of implementation of Land Use Alternative B would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
CULT-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to cultural resources.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by future development permitted under this Alternative
within the Cupertino city boundary and SOI, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the
rest of Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of
Governments (ABAG). Potential future development permitted under this Alternative has the potential to
cumulatively impact historical resources. Such impacts could result from more intensive land uses,
incompatible site designs that impact the historical integrity of nearby historical buildings and districts, and
demolition of historical resources. Further, development within the city boundary also has the potential to
adversely affect archaeological resources, paleontological resources, and human remains through their
destruction or disturbance. Therefore, before mitigation, development allowed under this Alternative, in
combination with other future development in the region, has the potential to cause adverse cumulative
impacts to cultural resources due to their destruction or loss of integrity. However, the current and
amended General Plan policies and strategies, and mandatory regulation described under Impact CULT-1
through CULT-4, and Section 4.4.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.4, Cultural Resources, of this
Draft EIR, would avoid most impacts to such resources that would occur from development and land use
changes allowed under Land Use Alternative B. Therefore, past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future
development in Cupertino is not expected to have a significant effect on cultural resources.
Land Use Alternative B is not anticipated to have a significant impact on cultural resources. Therefore,
implementation of this Alternative would result in a less-than-significant contribution to cumulative
cultural resources impacts.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-76 JUNE 18, 2014
5.3.7.5 GEOLOGY, SOILS, AND SEISMICITY
GEO-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not expose people or
structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss,
injury, or death involving surface rupture along a known active fault;
strong seismic ground shaking; seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction; and landslides.
To date, only one Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone has been mapped within Cupertino, as shown on
Figure 4.5-2 in Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, namely, the zone that flanks
the San Andreas Fault in the southwestern-most part of the city. However, as shown on Figure 4.5-2, none
of the Project Component Locations are located on this fault zone. Protections afforded by the Alquist-
Priolo Act, as well as Municipal Code ordinances, as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework,
of Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, that empower the City to require detailed
geotechnical reports in areas of suspected geological hazards, suggest that the potential for ground rupture
would be mitigated for future development or construction in the city. However, in the event of a large, MW
6.7 or greater seismic event, much of the city is projected to experience “strong” ground shaking, with the
most intense shaking forecast for the northeast part of Cupertino. Based on published studies and maps of
the city, the potential for seismically-induced liquefaction appears low and limited to narrow areas that flank
natural drainages such as Stevens, Regnart, and Calabazas Creeks. Future development permitted by Land
Use Alternative B would be concentrated on sites either developed and/or underutilized, and would not be
in proximity to these natural drainages. In contrast, the State-mapped hazards for seismic-induced landslides
appear to be extensive in the Foothills that occupy the southwest part of the Project Study Area. Municipal
Code ordinances that empower the City to require detailed soils and/or geotechnical reports in areas of
suspected geological hazards, would minimize the potential for seismically-induced landsliding for future
development or construction in the southwest part of the Project Study Area.
In addition to compliance with the Municipal Code building standards, Land Use Alternative B includes
General Plan policies and strategies that minimize risk from seismic hazards. Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard
Risk Reduction Planning, would require the City to coordinate with Santa Clara County and local agencies
to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional LHMP for Santa Clara County. Strategy 1 would require the City to
monitor and evaluate the success of the LHMP, including local strategies provided in the Cupertino Annex.
Working with Santa Clara County, ensure that strategies are prioritized and implemented through the
Capital Improvement Program and provide adequate budget for on-going programs and department
operations. Strategy 2 would require the City to ensure that mitigation actions identified in the LHMP are
being incorporated into upcoming City sponsored projects, where appropriate. Strategy 3 would require the
City to support Santa Clara County in its role as the lead agency that prepares and updates LHMP. Policy 6-
2, Seismic/Geologic Review Process, would require the City to evaluate new development proposals within
mapped potential hazard zones using a formal seismic/geologic review process and use Table 6-D, Technical
Investigations Required based on Acceptable Risk, to determine the level of review required. Table 6-D
applies the land use activity category group provided in Table 6-C, Acceptable Exposure to Risk Related to
Various Land Uses, to determine what type of evaluation is required. For example, Group 4, involuntary
occupancy facilities such as schools, and high occupancy buildings, such as large office or apartment
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-77
buildings, would be required to comply with the CBC, complete a soils and foundation investigation,
determine ability of local soil conditions to support structures, determine subsidence potential, faulting
hazard, slope stability, and prepare a detailed Soils/Structural evaluation to certify adequacy of normal CBC
earthquake regulations or to recommend more stringent measures. Strategy 1 would require any site with a
slope exceeding 10 percent to reference the Landslide Hazard Potential Zone maps of the State of California
for all required geotechnical and structural analysis. Strategy 2 would require that any residential facility that
is being increased more than 50 percent in price or physical size conform to all provisions of the current
building code throughout the entire structure. Owners of residential buildings with known structural
defects, such as un-reinforced garage openings, “Soft first story” construction, unbolted foundations, or
inadequate sheer walls are encouraged to take steps to remedy the problem and bring their buildings up to
the current building code. Strategy 3 would require the City to continue to implement geologic review
procedure for Geologic Reports required by Chapter 19 of the Municipal Code that incorporates these
concerns into the development review process. Policy 6-3, Public Education on Seismic Safety, would
require the City to encourage various public education programs to help residents reduce earthquake
hazards. Strategy 1 would require developers to record a covenant to tell future residents in high-risk areas
about the risk and inform them that more information is in City Hall records. This is in addition to the State
requirement that information on the geological report is recorded on the face of subdivision maps. Strategy
2 would require the City to publish and promote emergency preparedness activities and drills. Use the
Cupertino Scene and website to provide safety tips that may include identifying and correcting household
hazards, knowing how and when to turn off utilities, helping family members protect themselves during and
after an earthquake, recommending neighborhood preparation activities, and advising residents to maintain
an emergency supply kit containing first-aid supplies, food, drinking water and battery operated radios and
flashlight. Strategy 3 would require the City to encourage participation in Community Emergency Response
Team (CERT) training. Train neighborhood groups to care for themselves during disasters. Assist in
neighborhood drills. Strategy 4 would require the City to actively cooperate with State agencies that oversee
facilities for vulnerable populations, to ensure that such facilities conform to all health and safety
requirements, including emergency planning, training, exercises and employee education. Strategy 5 would
require the City to obtain translated emergency preparedness materials and make them available to
appropriate foreign language populations.
In addition, new development in Cupertino would be required to comply with the CBC and the City’s
Building Code, which contain criteria and standards that are designed to reduce ground rupture risks to
acceptable levels.
Through the implementation of the policies and strategies discussed above, along with compliance with the
CBC and City Building Code, as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.5,
Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, the City would mitigate the risks associated with fault rupture, and the
impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-78 JUNE 18, 2014
GEO-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in substantial
soil erosion or the loss of topsoil.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil.
Substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil during construction could undermine structures and minor slopes,
and this could be a concern during buildout under Land Use Alternative B. However, compliance with
existing regulatory requirements, such as implementation of grading erosion control measures as specified
in the City of Cupertino’s Municipal Code, as described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of
Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this Draft EIR, would reduce impacts from erosion and the
loss of topsoil. Specifically, Section 16.08.110, would require the preparation of an Interim Erosion and
Sediment Control Plan, either integrated with the site map/grading plan or submitted separately, to the
Director of Public Works that calculates the maximum runoff from the site for the 10-year storm event and
describes measures to be undertaken to retain sediment on the site, a brief description of the surface runoff
and erosion control measures to be implemented, and vegetative measures to be undertaken.
In addition, Land Use Alternative B implements policies and supporting strategies to reduce soil erosion;
thereby minimizing impacts related to loss of topsoil. Policy 5-10, Landscaping Near Natural Vegetation,
implements the city’s Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance, Environmentally Preferable Procurement
Policy, and the Parks & Recreation Green Policies, and would require the City to continue to emphasize
drought tolerant and pest-resistant native and non-invasive, non-native, drought tolerant plants and ground
covers when landscaping public and private properties near natural vegetation, particularly for control of
erosion from disturbance to the natural terrain. Policy 5-19, Reduction of Impervious Surfaces, would
require the City to minimize storm water flow and erosion impacts resulting from development. Strategy 1
would require the City to change City codes to include a formula regulating how much paved surface is
allowable on each lot. This would include driveways and patios installed at the time of building or
remodeling. Strategy 2 would require the City to encourage the use of non-impervious materials for
walkways and driveways. If used in a City or quasi-public area, mobility and access for the disabled should
always take precedent. Strategy 3 would require the City to minimize impervious surface areas, minimizing
directly-connected impervious surfaces, maximizing onsite infiltration and using on-site retaining facilities.
Finally, Policy 6-47, Hillside Grading, would require the City to restrict the extent and timing of hillside
grading operation to April through October. Require performance bonds during the remaining time to
guarantee the repair of any erosion damage. All graded slopes must be planted as soon as practical after
grading is complete. Furthermore, the future development permitted by Land Use Alternative B would be
concentrated on sites either developed and/or underutilized, where development would result in limited
soil erosion or loss of topsoil. Therefore, adherence to existing regulatory requirements in the Municipal
Code and implementation of the proposed General Plan policies would ensure that impacts associated with
substantial erosion and loss of topsoil during the buildout of the Project Study Area would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-79
GEO-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in a significant
impact related to development on unstable geologic units and soils or
result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence,
liquefaction, or collapse.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in a significant impact related to development
on unstable geologic units and soils or result in on- or off-site landslide, later spreading, subsidence,
liquefaction, or collapse. Unstable geologic units are known to be present within the city. The impacts of
such unstable materials include, but may not be limited to subsidence where fill material may be highly
compressible. Such subsidence has been exacerbated by historical groundwater overdraft. Areas underlain by
thick colluvium or poorly engineered fill as well as low-lying areas may also be prone to subsidence. Future
development in Cupertino in areas limited to land flanking natural drainages such as Stevens, Regnart, and
Calabazas Creeks may be at greater risk for seismically-induced liquefaction. However, the Project
Component Locations where new development would occur is not in these areas. The future development
permitted by Land Use Alternative B would be concentrated on sites either developed and/or underutilized.
Compliance with Municipal Code requirements and General Plan policies outlined under Impact GEO-1
and GEO-2 above, which can require site-specific soils and/or geotechnical studies for land development or
construction in areas of potential geologic instability (as shown on the City’s geologic hazard maps), would
reduce the potential impacts associated with soil instability to a less-than-significant level.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GEO-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not create substantial
risks to life or property as a result of its location on expansive soil, as
defined Section 1803.5.3 of the California Building Code, creating
substantial risks to life or property.
The pattern of expansive soils within the city is such that expansive soils (denoted by soils with high linear
extensibility and plasticity index) are most prevalent in the northeast part of Cupertino as shown in Figure
4.5-1 in Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity. However, future development in these areas would be
subject to the CBC regulations and provisions, as adopted in Chapter 16.04, Building Code, of the City’s
Municipal Code and enforced by the City during plan review prior to building permit issuance. The CBC
contains specific requirements for seismic safety, excavation, foundations, retaining walls, and site
demolition, and also regulates grading activities, including drainage and erosion control. General Plan
Policies 6-1, 6-2 and 6-3, and supporting strategies in the Safety Element outlined in Impact GEO-1 above,
require the formal seismic and geologic evaluation of new development proposals that lie within mapped
potential hazard zones. Thus, compliance with existing regulations and policies would ensure that the
potential future development impacts permitted under Land Use Alternative B would be reduced to a less-
than-significant level.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-80 JUNE 18, 2014
GEO-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to geology and soils.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative B within the Cupertino city boundary
and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG).
Potential cumulative geological impacts could arise from a combination of the development of Land Use
Alternative B together with future development in the immediate vicinity of the adjoining jurisdictions.
Only one active earthquake fault (i.e. the San Andreas Fault Zone) has been mapped by the State of
California within the city, which is approximately 5 miles from Land Use Alternative B Component
Locations, the risk of primary fault rupture on occupied buildings is judged low. Furthermore, new
development under Land Use Alternative B would be subject to CBC and Municipal Code requirements, as
described in Section 4.5.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.5, Geology, Soils, and Seismicity, of this
Draft EIR. Compliance with these building code requirements would, to the maximum extent practicable,
reduce cumulative, development-related impacts that relate to seismically-induced ground-shaking,
liquefaction, and expansive soils. Similarly, compliance with the General Plan policy and strategies, as listed
above in impact discussion GEO-1 of this chapter, as well as the City’s Ordinances pertaining to excavation
and grading (i.e. Chapter 16.08, Excavations, Grading and Retaining Walls) including implementation of an
Interim Erosion Control Plan and various control measures, would minimize the cumulative impacts
associated with soil erosion and loss of topsoil to the maximum extent practicable. Therefore, Land Use
Alternative B would result in a less-than-significant cumulative impact with respect to geology, soils, and
seismicity.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.3.7.6 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
GHG-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not directly or indirectly
generate GHG emissions that may have a significant impact on the
environment.
Development under Land Use Alternative B would contribute to global climate change through direct and
indirect emissions of GHG from transportation sources, energy (natural gas and purchased energy), water
use and wastewater generation, waste generation, and other, off-road equipment (e.g. landscape equipment,
construction activities).
Community-Wide GHG Emissions – Land Use Alternative B
BAAQMD has not adopted a 2040 per capita GHG threshold for operation-related GHG emissions.
However, a 2040 efficiency target was derived for Land Use Alternative B based on the long-term GHG
reduction target for 2050 interpolated from Executive Order S-03-05, which is an 80 percent reduction
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-81
from 1990 levels by 2020. This methodology is consistent with CARB’s recommendations in the Update to
the Scoping Plan.17 The 2040 efficiency target would be 3.1 MTCO2e per service population for the city.
The community-wide GHG emissions inventory for the Land Use Alternative B compared to existing
conditions is included in Table 5.3-5.
The GHG emissions at 2040 in the City of Cupertino under Land Use Alternative B would decrease by 51
MTCO2e compared to existing conditions. As shown in Table 5.3-5, community-wide GHG emissions in the
city at 2040 would also meet the 3.1 MTCO2e threshold, which is based on the long-term GHG reduction
goal of Executive Order S-03-05. Impacts from GHG emissions within the City of Cupertino would be less
than significant for long-term growth anticipated under Land Use Alternative B.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would reduce GHG emissions from
development projects to the maximum extent practicable. Within the Community Design Element, Policy
2-2, Connections Between Special Areas, Employment Centers and the Community, would require the City
to provide strong connections between the major mixed-use Special Areas, employment centers, and the
surrounding community. Supporting strategies would require the City to enhance pedestrian and bicycle
connections from the major mixed-use Special Areas and employment centers to surrounding
neighborhoods and provide pedestrian and bicycle paths through new and redevelopment projects to
enhance public access to and through the development. Policy 2-12, Long Term Growth Boundary, would
require the City to allow modification of the long-term growth boundary only in conjunction with a
comprehensive review of the City’s General Plan. Policy 2-22, Jobs/Housing Balance, would require the
City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Policy 2-26, Heart of the City Special
Area, would require the City to create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of
mixed-use development; enhanced activity gateways and nodes; and safe and efficient circulation and access
for all modes of transportation. Supporting strategies 1 and 2 require the City to maintain the Heart of the
City Specific Plan as the primary implementation tool for the City to use for this area and evaluate options
on Stevens Creek Boulevard to improve the pedestrian environment by proactively managing speed limits
and traffic signal synchronization. Policy 4-5, Pedestrian Access, require the City to create pedestrian access
between new subdivisions and school sites. Review existing neighborhood circulation plans to improve
safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists to school sites, including completing accessible network of
sidewalks and paths. Supporting strategies require the City to implement the recommendations of the
Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation Plan and trail projects, evaluate any safety, security and privacy impacts
and mitigations associated with trail development and work with affected neighborhoods in locating trails.
17 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2014, Proposed First Update to the Climate Change Scoping Plan: Building on the
Framework, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/scopingplan/2013_update/draft_proposed_first_update.pdf, February
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h
e
r
‐
Of
f
r
o
a
d
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
e
14
,
0
0
6
14
,
8
9
0
13
,
4
0
1
‐
60
5
‐
4%
‐1,489 ‐10%
To
t
a
l
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
30
9
,
4
0
6
39
1
,
1
3
6
30
9
,
3
5
5
‐
51
<‐1%
‐81,781 ‐21%
Se
r
v
i
c
e
Po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
f
85
,
6
8
9
10
7
,
1
4
3
—
—
— —
MT
C
O
2e/
S
e
r
v
i
c
e
Po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
(S
P
)
3.
6
3.
7
2.
9
—
—
— —
BA
A
Q
M
D
GH
G
20
4
0
Pl
a
n
‐Le
v
e
l
Th
r
e
s
h
o
l
d
—
—
3.
1
—
—
— —
Ac
h
i
e
v
e
s
BA
A
Q
M
D
GH
G
Pl
a
n
‐Le
v
e
l
Th
r
e
s
h
o
l
d
?
—
—
Ye
s
—
—
— —
No
t
e
s
:
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
ma
y
no
t
to
t
a
l
to
10
0
pe
r
c
e
n
t
du
e
to
ro
u
n
d
i
n
g
.
BA
U
:
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
as
us
u
a
l
;
AB
A
U
:
ad
j
u
s
t
e
d
bu
s
i
n
e
s
s
as
us
u
a
l
.
Ba
s
e
d
on
GW
P
s
in
th
e
IP
C
C
Se
c
o
n
d
As
s
e
s
s
m
e
n
t
Re
p
o
r
t
.
a.
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
.
VM
T
is
ba
s
e
d
on
da
t
a
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
by
He
x
a
g
o
n
ba
s
e
d
on
VT
A
mo
d
e
l
fo
r
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
an
d
mo
d
e
l
e
d
wi
t
h
EM
F
A
C
2
0
1
1
‐PL
fo
r
ru
n
n
i
n
g
ex
h
a
u
s
t
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
us
i
n
g
20
3
5
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
rates (note: 2040
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
ra
t
e
s
ar
e
no
t
av
a
i
l
a
b
l
e
)
.
VM
T
is
mu
l
t
i
p
l
i
e
d
by
34
7
da
y
s
/
y
e
a
r
to
ac
c
o
u
n
t
fo
r
re
d
u
c
e
d
tr
a
f
f
i
c
on
we
e
k
e
n
d
s
an
d
ho
l
i
d
a
y
s
.
b.
En
e
r
g
y
.
Ba
s
e
d
on
3‐ye
a
r
av
e
r
a
g
e
(2
0
1
2
–
2
0
1
0
)
of
en
e
r
g
y
us
e
pr
o
v
i
d
e
d
by
Pa
c
i
f
i
c
Ga
s
& El
e
c
t
r
i
c
(P
G
&
E
)
an
d
fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
ba
s
e
d
on
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
B ho
u
s
i
n
g
un
i
t
s
(r
e
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
)
,
employment (non‐residential),
an
d
se
r
v
i
c
e
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
(C
i
t
y
)
pr
o
j
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
Th
e
no
n
r
e
s
i
d
e
n
t
i
a
l
se
c
t
o
r
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
di
r
e
c
t
ac
c
e
s
s
cu
s
t
o
m
e
r
s
,
co
u
n
t
y
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
,
an
d
ot
h
e
r
di
s
t
r
i
c
t
fa
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
wi
t
h
i
n
th
e
ci
t
y
bo
u
n
d
a
r
i
e
s
.
PG
&
E
energy based on PG&E’s carbon
in
t
e
n
s
i
t
y
fo
r
20
2
0
.
Th
e
20
2
0
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
ra
t
e
is
es
t
i
m
a
t
e
d
by
PG
&
E
.
It
in
c
l
u
d
e
s
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
33
pe
r
c
e
n
t
RP
S
,
Ca
p
‐an
d
‐Tr
a
d
e
,
an
d
ot
h
e
r
re
g
u
l
a
t
o
r
y
re
d
u
c
t
i
o
n
s
fo
r
HG
W
P
ga
s
e
s
su
c
h
as reductions of SF6. Direct
ac
c
e
s
s
en
e
r
g
y
ba
s
e
d
on
th
e
eG
R
I
D
ca
r
b
o
n
in
t
e
n
s
i
t
y
an
d
as
s
u
m
e
s
33
pe
r
c
e
n
t
RP
S
.
c.
Wa
s
t
e
.
Ba
s
e
d
on
CA
R
B
La
n
d
f
i
l
l
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
To
o
l
Ve
r
s
i
o
n
1_
2
0
1
3
.
Wa
s
t
e
ge
n
e
r
a
t
i
o
n
ba
s
e
d
on
3‐ye
a
r
av
e
r
a
g
e
(2
0
1
2
‐20
1
0
)
wa
s
t
e
co
m
m
i
t
m
e
n
t
fo
r
th
e
Ci
t
y
of
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
ob
t
a
i
n
e
d
fr
o
m
CalRecycle and forecast
ba
s
e
d
on
th
e
se
r
v
i
c
e
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
.
As
s
u
m
e
s
75
pe
r
c
e
n
t
of
fu
g
i
t
i
v
e
GH
G
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
ar
e
ca
p
t
u
r
e
d
wi
t
h
i
n
th
e
la
n
d
f
i
l
l
'
s
La
n
d
f
i
l
l
Ga
s
Ca
p
t
u
r
e
Sy
s
t
e
m
wi
t
h
a la
n
d
f
i
l
l
ga
s
ca
p
t
u
r
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
of 75 percent. The
La
n
d
f
i
l
l
ga
s
ca
p
t
u
r
e
ef
f
i
c
i
e
n
c
y
is
ba
s
e
d
on
th
e
CA
R
B
’
s
LG
O
P
,
Ve
r
s
i
o
n
1.
1
.
d.
Wa
t
e
r
/
W
a
s
t
e
w
a
t
e
r
.
In
c
l
u
d
e
s
fu
g
i
t
i
v
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
wa
s
t
e
w
a
t
e
r
pr
o
c
e
s
s
i
n
g
an
d
en
e
r
g
y
as
s
o
c
i
a
t
e
d
wi
t
h
wa
t
e
r
/
w
a
s
t
e
w
a
t
e
r
tr
e
a
t
m
e
n
t
an
d
co
n
v
e
y
a
n
c
e
.
Th
e
ne
t
in
c
r
e
a
s
e
in
wa
t
e
r
use was based on the Water
Su
p
p
l
y
Ev
a
l
u
a
t
i
o
n
pr
e
p
a
r
e
d
fo
r
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
B.
e.
Ar
e
a
So
u
r
c
e
s
– Of
f
‐Ro
a
d
Em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
.
Ge
n
e
r
a
t
e
d
us
i
n
g
OF
F
R
O
A
D
2
0
0
7
.
Es
t
i
m
a
t
e
d
ba
s
e
d
on
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
(L
a
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
)
,
em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
(L
i
g
h
t
Co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
Eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
)
,
an
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
building permits
(C
o
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
)
fo
r
Cu
p
e
r
t
i
n
o
as
a pe
r
c
e
n
t
a
g
e
of
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Co
u
n
t
y
.
An
n
u
a
l
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
s
ar
e
as
s
u
m
e
d
to
be
si
m
i
l
a
r
to
hi
s
t
o
r
i
c
le
v
e
l
s
.
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
s
fo
r
la
n
d
s
c
a
p
i
n
g
equipment use are based on
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
B po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
pr
o
j
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
,
an
d
fo
r
li
g
h
t
co
m
m
e
r
c
i
a
l
eq
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
us
e
ar
e
ba
s
e
d
on
La
n
d
Us
e
Al
t
e
r
n
a
t
i
v
e
B em
p
l
o
y
m
e
n
t
pr
o
j
e
c
t
i
o
n
s
.
Ex
c
l
u
d
e
s
BA
A
Q
M
D
pe
r
m
i
t
t
e
d
sources. Daily construction
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
mu
l
t
i
p
l
i
e
d
by
34
7
da
y
s
/
y
e
a
r
to
ac
c
o
u
n
t
fo
r
re
d
u
c
e
d
/
l
i
m
i
t
e
d
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
ac
t
i
v
i
t
y
on
we
e
k
e
n
d
s
an
d
ho
l
i
d
a
y
s
.
Ex
c
l
u
d
e
s
fu
g
i
t
i
v
e
em
i
s
s
i
o
n
s
fr
o
m
co
n
s
t
r
u
c
t
i
o
n
si
t
e
s
.
f.
Ba
s
e
d
on
:
Ex
i
s
t
i
n
g
se
r
v
i
c
e
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
85
,
6
8
9
pe
o
p
l
e
(5
8
,
3
0
2
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
27
,
3
8
7
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
)
.
20
4
0
se
r
v
i
c
e
po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
of
10
7
,
1
4
3
pe
o
p
l
e
(6
8
,
0
5
1
re
s
i
d
e
n
t
s
an
d
39
,
0
9
2
em
p
l
o
y
e
e
s
)
.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-83
Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability, would
require the City to incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s planning and development
system. Supporting strategies include requiring the City to appoint a Task Force or Commission to develop
an appropriate comprehensive annual Sustainability and Resource Plan for the City to write and keep
current the annual Tactical Plan and measurement of City-wide programs to help achieve the Environmental
Resources and Sustainability section of the General Plan; identify and evaluate resources, technologies,
products and the lifecycle cost of ownership for each recommended; and work with City staff to evaluate
the financial feasibility of the recommendations. The City would be required to encourage community
gardens, which provide a more livable environment by controlling physical factors such as temperature,
noise, and pollution. In addition, the City is required to adopt and implement energy policies and
implementation programs that include the City’s planning and regulatory process; conduct a Citywide
sustainability inventory in order to identify issues, opportunities and planning alternatives; and prepare and
implement a comprehensive sustainability energy plan as a part of the City’s General Plan. The supporting
energy plan would be designed to include the following:
Reduction of energy consumption.
Reduction of fossil fuels.
Use of renewable energy resources whenever possible.
Improve City-wide water usage and conservancy.
Reduce water consumption by the City.
Promote residential and business water reduction.
Policy 5-3, Conservation and Efficient Use of Energy Resources, would require the City to encourage the
maximum feasible conservation and efficient use of electrical power and natural gas resources for new and
existing residences, businesses, industrial and public uses. Supporting strategies require the City to do the
following:
Prepare and implement a comprehensive energy management plan for all applicable public facilities,
equipment and procurement and construction practices.
Review and evaluate applicable City codes, ordinances, and procedures for inclusion of local, state and
federal policies and standards that promote the conservation and efficient use of energy and for
consistency with the goal of sustainability. Change those that will promote energy efficiency without a
punitive effect.
Using life cycle cost analysis, identify City assets for replacement with more energy efficient
replacements.
implement an incentive program to include such items as reduced permit fees for building projects that
exceed Title 24 requirements. Promote other incentives from the State, County and Federal
Governments for improving energy efficiency by posting information regarding incentive, rebate and
tax credit programs on the City’s web site. Let’s make learning about this easy and help those interested
get started!
Encourage the use of energy cogeneration systems through the provision of an awareness program
targeting the larger commercial and industrial users and public facilities.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-84 JUNE 18,2014
Ensure designer, developers, applicants and builders meet California Title 24 Energy Efficient Building
Standards and encourage architects, building designers and contractors to exceed “Title 24”
requirements for new projects through the provision of incentives. Encourage either passive solar
heating and/or dark plaster interior with a cover for swimming pools, cabanas and other related
accessory uses where solar access is available. Encourage the use of alternative renewable sources where
feasible, and develop energy audits or subvention programs.
Require, as conditions of approval for new and renovated projects, the provision of energy
conservation/efficiency applications.
Encourage alternative, energy efficient transportation modes such as “clean” multi-modal public transit,
car and vanpooling, flexible work hours, and pedestrian and bicycle paths.
Policy 5-4, Green Building Design, would require the City to set standards for the design and construction
of energy and resource conserving/efficient building (Green Building Design). Supporting strategies require
the City to prepare and implement “Green Building” standards for all major private and public projects that
ensure reduction in energy consumption for new development through site and building design. The City
would be required to participate in and encourage building energy audits, where feasible, for commercial,
industrial and city facilities and convey to the business and industrial communities that energy
conservation/efficiency is, in the long term, economically beneficial. PG&E also offers energy evaluation
tools and services free of charge. In addition, the City would prepare a “Green Buildings” evaluation guide
for use by the city staff when reviewing projects, train appropriate staff in the design principles, costs and
benefits of energy conservation/efficient buildings and landscape design, conduct and/or participate in
“Green Buildings” informational seminars and workshops to include people involved in the design and
construction industry, land development, real estate sales, lending institutions, landscaping and design, the
building maintenance industry and prospective project applicants, and become a regular feature article in
the Cupertino Scene, do media outreach to the Courier and the Guide (San Jose Mercury) tape the
Sustainable Building and other conservation courses, or seminars and broadcast them on the City Channel as
well, and make them available at the Library. Policy 5-6, Air Pollution Effects of Existing Development,
would require the City to minimize the air quality impacts of existing development. Supporting strategies
require the City to establish a Citywide public education program regarding the implications of the Clean
Air Act and provide information on ways to reduce and control emissions; provide information about
carpooling and restricting physical activities on “Spare the Air” high-pollution days, expand the allowable
home occupations in residentially zoned properties to reduce the need to commute to work, increase
planting of trees on City property and encourage the practice on private property, maintain City use of fuel-
efficient and low polluting vehicles, and work with County to monitor and influence improvement of
emissions and dust from the Hanson and Stevens Creek Quarries on the West end of the City. Policy 5-7,
Use of Open Fires and Fireplaces, would require the City to discourage high pollution fireplace use. Policy
5-28, Interagency Coordination, actively pursue interagency coordination for regional water supply
problem solving. Policy 5-29, Coordination of Local Conservation Policies with Regionwide Conservation
Policies, would require the City to Coordinate city-wide water conservation efforts with the Santa Clara
Valley Water District efforts being conducted on a regional scale. Many of these conservation efforts are
outlined in the Santa Clara Valley Water District Drought Plan and Countywide Water Use Reduction
program. Policy 5-30, Public Information Effort, would require the City to provide the public information
regarding water conservation/efficiency techniques, including how paving and other impervious surfaces
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-85
impact runoff. Policy 5-31, Water Use Efficiency, would require the City to promote efficient use of water
throughout the City. Policy 5-38, Commercial/Industrial Recycling, would require the City to expand
existing commercial and industrial recycling programs to meet and surpass AB939 waste stream reduction
goals. Policy 5-39, Residential Recycling, would require the City to streamline the residential curbside
recycling program in the next decade. Include all city-wide residential zoning districts in the curbside
recycling program. Policy 5-40, On-Site Garbage and Organic Collection Area Dedication, would require
the City to modify existing, and require for new developments, on-site waste facility requirements for all
multi-family residential, commercial and industrial land uses to have adequate covered area for a
combination of garbage, recycling and organic collection. Supporting strategy, Ordinance Revisions, would
require the City to revise existing ordinances relative to on-site waste facility requirements for all multi-
family residential, commercial and industrial zoning districts to require that a minimum of 50 percent of
garbage area be dedicated to recycling. Policy 5-41, Public Education, would require the City to promote
the existing public education program regarding the reduction of solid waste disposal and recycling.
Supporting strategy, Recycling Program Information, would require the City to use the local television
channel, the Cupertino Scene, the Internet and other available media to provide information to the residents
about the objectives of the City’s recycling program. Policy 5-42, City Recycling and Organic Diversion,
would require the City to encourage City staff to recycle and compost at all City facilities. Policy 5-43, Re-
distribution of Reusable Materials, would require the City to re-distribute reusable materials, e.g. garage
sales, materials exchange through public education, encourage residents and businesses. Policy 5-44, Reuse
of Building Materials, would require the City to encourage the recycling and reuse of building materials,
including recycling materials generated by the demolition and remodeling of buildings.
Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-1, City Participation in Regional Transportation Planning, would
require the City to participate actively in developing regional approaches to meeting the transportation
needs of the residents of the Santa Clara Valley. Work closely with neighboring jurisdictions and agencies
responsible for roadways, transit facilities and transit services in Cupertino. Supporting strategies require
the City to minimize regional traffic impacts on Cupertino by supporting regional planning programs to
manage the jobs-housing balance throughout Santa Clara County and the Silicon Valley; ensure that
connections are provided to enable travelers to transition from one mode of transportation to another, e.g.
bicycle to bus ;support the expansion of the VTA’s regional bus transit system and extension of bus and/or
light rail rapid transit into the Stevens Creek and De Anza Special Areas to fulfill the “spoke and wheel”
transit system designed to serve all of Santa Clara County. Policy 4-3, Reduced Reliance on the Use of
Single-Occupant Vehicles, require the City to promote a general decrease in reliance on private, mostly
single-occupant vehicles (SOV) by encouraging attractive alternatives. Supporting strategies require the City
to encourage the use of alternatives to the SOV including increased car-pooling, use of public transit,
bicycling and walking; encourage TSM programs for employees in both the public and private sectors by
including preferred parking for carpools, providing bus passes, encouraging compressed workweeks, and
providing incentives and rewards for bicycling and walking; encourage employers to use the internet to
reduce commute travel. Encourage schools, particularly at the college and high school levels, to make
maximum use of the internet to limit the need to travel to and from the campus; encourage new
commercial developments to provide shared office facilities, cafeterias, day-care facilities, lunchrooms,
showers, bicycle parking, home offices, shuttle buses to transit facilities and other amenities that encourage
the use of transit, bicycling, walking or telecommuting as commute modes to work. Provide pedestrian
pathways and orient buildings to the street to encourage pedestrian activity; provide space on appropriate
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streets for bus turnouts, or safe and accessible bike lanes or pedestrian paths; use the Cupertino Scene and
other media to provide educational material on alternatives to the SOV; continue to work with the City
Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, community groups and residents to eliminate hazards and barriers
to bicycle and pedestrian transportation.
Applicable Regulations
California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32)
Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act (SB 375)
Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Targets (Executive Order S-3-05)
Clean Car Standards – Pavely (AB 1493)
Renewable Portfolio Standards (SB 1078)
California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939)
California Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law (AB 341)
California Advanced Clean Cars CARB/ Low-Emission Vehicle Program – LEV III (Title 13 CCR)
Heavy-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Measure (Title 17 CCR)
Low Carbon Fuel Standard (Title 17 CCR)
California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 (AB 1881)
California Water Conservation Act of 2009 (SBX7-7)
Statewide Retail Provider Emissions Performance Standards (SB 1368).
Airborne Toxics Control Measure to Limit School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools (13 CCR 2480)
Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit Diesel-Fuel Commercial Vehicle Idling (13 CCR 2485)
In-Use Off-Road Diesel Idling Restriction (13 CCR 2449)
Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6)
California Green Building Code (Title 24, Part 11)
Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 20)
The General Plan establishes the framework for future growth and development in Cupertino. A General
Plan does not directly result in development without additional approvals. Before any development can
occur in the City, it is required to be analyzed for conformance with the General Plan, zoning requirements,
and other applicable local and state requirements; comply with the requirements of CEQA; and obtain all
necessary clearances and permits. As identified in Table 5.3-5, Land Use Alternative B would achieve the
2035 performance criteria, which would ensure that the City is on a trajectory that is consistent with the
statewide GHG reduction goals. Consequently, long-ter m GHG emissions impacts of Land Use Alternative
B are less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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GHG-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not conflict with an
applicable plan, policy, or regulation of an agency adopted for the purpose
of reducing the emissions of GHGs.
The following plans have been adopted and are applicable for development in the City of Cupertino:
CARB’s Scoping Plan
In accordance with AB 32, CARB developed the Scoping Plan to outline the State’s strategy to achieve 1990
level emissions by year 2020. To estimate the reductions necessary, CARB projected statewide 2020 BAU
GHG emissions (i.e. GHG emissions in the absence of statewide emission reduction measures). CARB
identified that the State as a whole would be required to reduce GHG emissions by 28.5 percent from year
2020 BAU to achieve the targets of AB 32.18 The revised BAU 2020 forecast shows that the state would have
to reduce GHG emissions by 21.6 percent from BAU without implementation of the Pavley GHG emissions
standards for passenger vehicles and the 33 percent renewable portfolio standard (RPS) for electricity, or
15.7 percent from the adjusted baseline (i.e. with Pavley and 33 percent RPS).19
Statewide strategies to reduce GHG emissions include the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), California
Appliance Energy Efficiency regulations; California Building Standards (i.e. CALGreen and the 2008
Building and Energy Efficiency Standards); California Renewable Energy Portfolio standard (33 percent
RPS); changes in the corporate average fuel economy standards (e.g. Pavley I and Pavley II); and other
measures that would ensure the State is on target to achieve the GHG emissions reduction goals of AB 32.
Statewide GHG emissions reduction measures that are being implemented over the next six years would
reduce the City’s GHG emissions.
As shown in Table 5.3-5, the City would achieve the 2020 target of AB 32 for cities within the San Francisco
Bay Area Air Basin (SFBAAB). New residential and non-residential construction in the City would achieve
the current building and energy efficiency standards. The new buildings would be constructed in
conformance with CALGreen, which would require high-efficiency water fixtures for indoor plumbing and
water efficient irrigation systems. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
MTC’s Plan Bay Area
To achieve ABAG’s/ Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)’s sustainable vision for the Bay Area,
the Plan Bay Area land use concept plan for the region concentrates the majority of new population and
employment growth in the region in Priority Development Areas (PDAs). PDAs are transit-oriented, infill
development opportunity areas within existing communities. Overall, well over two-thirds of all regional
growth by 2040 is allocated within PDAs. PDAs are expected to accommodate 80 percent (or over 525,570
units) of new housing and 66 percent (or 744,230) of new jobs.20 In Cupertino, Plan Bay Area includes the
18 California Air Resources Board (CARB). 2008. October. Climate Change Proposed Scoping Plan, a Framework for Change.
19 California Air Resources Board (CARB), 2012. Status of Scoping Plan Recommended Measures, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/
scopingplan/status_of_scoping_plan_measures.pdf.
20 Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2013. Plan Bay Area: Strategy
for a Sustainable Region, July 18.
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Santa Clara VTA – City Cores, Corridors & Station Areas PDA.21 The current and amended General Plan
includes the following policies, which would encourage new growth in this Special Area, consistent with
Plan Bay Area’s vision.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would encourage use of alternative
modes of travel, which is also consistent with Plan Bay Area’s vision. Within the Circulation Element, Policy
4-3, Reduced Reliance on the Use of Single-Occupant Vehicles, would require the City to promote a general
decrease in reliance on private, mostly single-occupant vehicles (SOV) by encouraging attractive
alternatives. Supporting strategies require the City to do the following:
Encourage the use of alternatives to the SOV including increased car-pooling, use of public transit,
bicycling and walking.
Encourage TSM programs for employees in both the public and private sectors by including preferred
parking for carpools, providing bus passes, encouraging compressed workweeks, and providing
incentives and rewards for bicycling and walking.
Encourage employers to use the internet to reduce commute travel. Encourage schools, particularly at
the college and high school levels, to make maximum use of the internet to limit the need to travel to
and from the campus.
Encourage new commercial developments to provide shared office facilities, cafeterias, day-care
facilities, lunchrooms, showers, bicycle parking, home offices, shuttle buses to transit facilities and other
amenities that encourage the use of transit, bicycling, walking or telecommuting as commute modes to
work. Provide pedestrian pathways and orient buildings to the street to encourage pedestrian activity.
Provide space on appropriate streets for bus turnouts, or safe and accessible bike lanes or pedestrian
paths.
Use the Cupertino Scene and other media to provide educational material on alternatives to the SOV.
Continue to work with the City Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, community groups and
residents to eliminate hazards and barriers to bicycle and pedestrian transportation.
Policy 4-4, Improve Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Throughout Cupertino, would require the City
Expand city-wide pedestrian and bicycle circulation in order to provide improved recreation, mobility and
safety. Supporting strategies require the City to implement the projects recommended in the Pedestrian
Guidelines including consider developing a quarter-mile grid of safe, walk-able sidewalks and paths to
provide pedestrian access among residential, shopping, recreation and business locations and work with the
School Districts to promote the Safe Route to Schools program. The City is also required to provide
additional time for pedestrians to cross streets at appropriate intersections, consider various improvements
to roadways to make them more pedestrian friendly and less auto-centric, encourage all public construction
and private development projects to submit a Pedestrian/Bicycle Impact Statement to assess the impact of
the project on pedestrians and bicycles. The City is required to implement Bicycle Plan, encourage the
21 Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2013. Plan Bay Area,
http://geocommons.com/maps/141979.
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developers of major new or remodeled buildings to include secure interior and/or fully weather protected
bicycle parking, and provide bicycle parking in multi-family residential developments and in commercial
districts as required under Section 19.100.040 of the City code. Policy 4-6, Regional Trail Development,
would require the City to continue to plan and provide for a comprehensive system of trails and pathways
consistent with regional systems. Policy 4-7, Increased Use of Public Transit, would require the City to
support and encourage the increased use of public transit. Policy 4-9, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs,
would require the City to balance the needs of pedestrians with desired traffic service. Policy 4-12, Street
Improvement Planning, would require the City to plan street improvements such as curb cuts, sidewalks,
bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash containers as an integral part of a project to
ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles with the least possible
disruption to the streetscape.
Policy 2-1, Focus Development in Mixed-Use Special Areas, which would encourage new growth in the
PDA mixed-use corridor, is consistent with Plan Bay Area’s vision. Policy 2-1 focuses new development in
major mixed-use corridors in the City by allowing higher intensity development and increased building
heights where appropriate in designated corridors, gateways, sub areas and nodes. As identified by the list of
policies that encourage use of alternative modes of transportation and Policy 2-1 that focuses new growth in
mixed-use areas, Land Use Alternative B is consistent with the objectives of Plan Bay Area for growth within
this PDA. Therefore, Land Use Alternative B is consistent with land use concept plan for Cupertino
identified in Plan Bay Area. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32)
Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act (SB 375)
Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Targets (Executive Order S-3-05)
Clean Car Standards – Pavely (AB 1493)
Renewable Portfolio Standards (SB 1078)
California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939)
California Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law (AB 341)
California Advanced Clean Cars CARB/ Low-Emission Vehicle Program – LEV III (Title 13 CCR)
Heavy-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Measure (Title 17 CCR)
Low Carbon Fuel Standard (Title 17 CCR)
California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 (AB 1881)
California Water Conservation Act of 2009 (SBX7-7)
Statewide Retail Provider Emissions Performance Standards (SB 1368).
Airborne Toxics Control Measure to Limit School Bus Idling and Idling at Schools (13 CCR 2480)
Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit Diesel-Fuel Commercial Vehicle Idling (13 CCR 2485)
In-Use Off-Road Diesel Idling Restriction (13 CCR 2449)
Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6)
California Green Building Code (Title 24, Part 11)
Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 20)
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Implementation of Land Use Alternative B policies as well as compliance with applicable State standards
listed and described above would ensure that consistency with state and regional GHG reduction planning
efforts; therefore, this impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
GHG-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to GHG emissions.
As described above, GHG emissions related to Land Use Alternative B are not confined to a particular air
basin but are dispersed worldwide. Therefore, the analysis in GHG-1 addresses cumulative impacts.
As identified above, the General Plan is a regulatory document that sets the framework for future growth
and development. A General Plan does not directly result in development without further approvals. Before
any development can occur in the city, it is required to be analyzed for conformance with the General Plan,
zoning requirements, and other applicable local and state requirements; comply with the requirements of
CEQA; and obtain all necessary clearances and permits. Furthermore, existing federal, State, and local
regulations and policies, including the City’s draft CAP, described throughout this chapter serve to reduce
community-wide GHG emissions. Continued compliance with these regulations and implementation of
existing policies, including applicable policies, would reduce impacts. As identified in Impact GHG-1, Table
5.3-5 shows that Land Use Alternative B would achieve the 2035 performance criteria, which would ensure
that the City is on a trajectory that is consistent with the statewide GHG reduction goals. Consequently,
cumulative GHG emissions impacts of Land Use Alternative B are less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.3.7.7 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HAZ-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport,
use, or disposal of hazardous materials.
While commercially-available hazardous materials (e.g. fuels, solvents, paints, and some consumer
electronics) would be used at various new construction sites and may generate small amounts of hazardous
waste, the waste would be handled in accordance with applicable federal, State, and local laws, policies, and
regulations, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and
Hazardous Materials, of this Draft EIR. As a general matter, the Land Use Alternative B, has office,
commercial and residential land uses and, therefore, would not include manufacturing or research processes
that generate substantial quantities of hazardous materials. The SCCFD and City of Cupertino Building
Division coordinate the review of building permits to ensure that hazardous materials requirements are met
prior to construction, including required separation between hazardous materials and sensitive land uses,
and proper hazardous materials storage facilities. Any businesses that transport, generate, use, and/or
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dispose of hazardous materials within the Project Study Area would also be subject to existing hazardous
materials regulations, such as those implemented by HMCD, and hazardous materials permits from the
SCCFD. The SCCFD also conducts inspections for fire safety and hazardous materials management of
businesses and multi-family dwellings, in accordance with the City of Cupertino Hazardous Materials
Storage Ordinance.
In addition, the General Plan contains the following policies and strategies that, once adopted, would
further ensure that new development would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment
through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. Within the Health and Safety
Element, Policy 6-27, Hazardous Materials Storage and Disposal, directs the City to require the proper
storage and disposal of hazardous materials to prevent leakage, potential explosions, fire or the release of
harmful fumes. Policy 6-28, Proximity of Residents to Hazardous Materials, requires the City to assess
future residents’ exposure to hazardous materials when new residential development or childcare facilities
are proposed in existing industrial and manufacturing areas and does not allow residential development or
childcare facilities if such hazardous conditions cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level of risk. Policy 6-
29, Electromagnetic Fields, requires the City to consider potential hazards from Electromagnetic Fields in
the project review process. Policy 6-30, Alternative Products, requires the City to continue to encourage
residents and businesses to use non- and less-hazardous products, especially less toxic pest control products,
to slow the generation of new hazardous waste requiring disposal through the county-wide program. Policy
6-31, Household Hazardous Wastes, requires the City to continue to support and facilitate for residences
and businesses a convenient opportunity to properly dispose of hazardous waste. Policy 6-32, Hazardous
Waste Dumping, requires the City to maintain information channels to the residential and business
communities about the illegality and danger of dumping hazardous material and waste in the storm drain
system or in creeks.
Compliance, with applicable federal, State, and local laws and regulations regarding handling of these
materials, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous
Materials, and the General Plan policies listed above would ensure the risks associated with release of
hazardous materials into the environment from the routine transport, use, storage, or disposal of hazardous
materials following construction would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable
upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials
into the environment.
The proposed Project would facilitate new development, including residential, mixed-use, and commercial
uses, within Cupertino. Some of the new development could occur on properties that possibly are
contaminated and inactive, undergoing evaluation, and/or undergoing corrective action, as indicated in
Table 4.7.1 of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials. Construction of new buildings and
improvements could have the potential to release potentially hazardous soil-based materials into the
environment during site grading and excavation operations. Likewise, demolition of existing structures
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could potentially result in release of hazardous building materials (e.g. asbestos, lead paint, etc.) into the
environment. Use of hazardous materials on newly developed properties after construction could
potentially include cleaning solvents, fertilizers, pesticides, and other materials used in the regular
maintenance and operation of the proposed uses. Compliance with applicable federal, State, and local laws
and regulations regarding handling of these materials described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework,
of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, the General Plan policies listed under Impact HAZ-1, and
compliance with the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan and Best Management Practices required for the
proposed Project (see Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, for additional detail), would ensure
future development under Land Use Alternative B would not create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of
hazardous materials into the environment; therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would emit hazardous emissions
or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school.
Several public and private schools, including preschools, elementary, middle, and high schools, are located
within one-quarter mile of known hazardous wastes sites that may be redeveloped as part of Land Use
Alternative B. The location of schools in proximity to each Project Component location is described in detail
in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR.
The SCCFD and City of Cupertino Building Division coordinate the review of building permits to ensure
that hazardous materials use requirements are met prior to construction, including required separation
between hazardous materials and sensitive land uses, and proper hazardous materials storage facilities. In
addition, the proposed Project could use hazardous materials. Future development under the proposed
Project would be required by the HMCD and the City of Cupertino to store, manage, and dispose of the
materials in accordance with the Unified Program.
While compliance with existing regulations described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of
Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, along with the General Plan policies listed under Impact
HAZ-1 would reduce the potential for school children to be exposed to hazardous materials during both
construction and operation from future development permitted under Land Use Alternative B., impacts
would be potentially significant.
However, implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-4a and HAZ-4b, as discussed in Impact HAZ-4
below, would reduce the potential for school children to be exposed to hazardous materials from future
development permitted under Land Use Alternative B to a less-than-significant level.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
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HAZ-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would be located on a site which
is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment.
As shown on Table 4.7-2, the search of the DTSC’s EnviroStor Database revealed five sites, and the
GeoTracker database search revealed 27 LUST sites, on or within close proximity to the Project
Component locations. The status of the LUST sites that are listed as “Completed-Case Closed,” indicates that
appropriate response actions have been completed to the satisfaction of the San Francisco Bay RWQCB or
the Santa Clara Water District and, in recent years, the Santa Clara County DEH, as the local oversight
agency. The status of the Hazardous Site Number 23 (Tosco #11220), in the Heart of the City Special Area,
a listed LUST site, is “Open-Verification Monitoring,” indicating that remediation phases are essentially
completed and a monitoring program is occurring to confirm successful completion of cleanup at the Site.
The on-going monitoring at this Hazardous Material Site is currently being reviewed by Santa Clara County
DEH with RWQCB oversight.
Out of the 32 Hazardous Materials Sites, the following have a status that indicates additional action is
required to address the hazardous materials at these locations. These are described as follows:
Hazardous Site 1 (Cupertino Village Cleaners), located in the North Vallco Park Special Area, North
Vallco Gateway and Study Area 5 (Cupertino Village) is listed as “voluntary cleanup,” which means, in
this case, the Site has a confirmed release of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) that has impacted site soil, and
the project proponents have requested the DTSC to oversee evaluation, investigation, and/or cleanup
activities and have agreed to provide coverage for the DTSC’s costs. Based on the potential human
health risk to future tenants of the former dry cleaners tenant space, the DTSC has concluded that
remediation (soil excavation or soil vapor extraction [SVE]) would be required at this location.
Hazardous Site 2 (Anderson Chevrolet Dealership), located in the Heart of the City Special Area and
North Crossroads Node, is listed as sites where the DTSC has determined that a Preliminary
Endangerment Assessment (PEA) or other evaluation is required.
Hazardous Site 3 (Four-Phase System), located in the South De Anza Special Area, is listed as
undergoing closure.
Hazardous Site 5 (Acrian Incorporated), located in the Bubb Road Special Area, is listed as sites where
the DTSC has determined that a Preliminary Endangerment Assessment (PEA) or other evaluation is
required.
Hazardous Site 13 (PG&E), located in Study Area 3 (PG&E), is a listed as LUST site. Case closure for
the Site was issued by the Santa Clara County DEH on June 29, 2005. However, Santa Clara County
DEH has determined that residual contamination in soil remains at the Site that could pose an
unacceptable risk under certain site development activities such as site grading, excavation, or the
installation of water wells. Therefore, the impact of the disturbance of any residual contamination or the
installation of water well(s) in the vicinity of the residual contamination must be assessed and
appropriate action taken so that there is no significant impact to human health, safety, or the
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environment. This could necessitate additional sampling, health risk assessment, and mitigation
measures.
Because hazardous materials are known to be present in soil, soil gas, and/or groundwater due to past land
uses at certain sites that may be redeveloped as part of Land Use Alternative B, the direct contact,
inhalation, or ingestion of hazardous materials could potentially cause adverse health effects to construction
workers and future site users. The severity of health effects would depend on the contaminant(s),
concentration, use of personal protective equipment during construction, and duration of exposure. The
disturbance and release of hazardous materials during earthwork activities, if present, could pose a hazard to
construction workers, nearby receptors, and the environment and impacts could be potentially significant.
Mitigation Measure
The following mitigation measures are recommended to minimize potential impacts related to sites with
known hazardous materials:
Mitigation Measure HAZ-4a: Construction at the sites with known contamination shall be
conducted under a project-specific Environmental Site Management Plan (ESMP) that is prepared in
consultation with the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). The purpose of the ESMP is to
protect construction workers, the general public, the environment, and future site occupants from
subsurface hazardous materials previously identified at the site and to address the possibility of
encountering unknown contamination or hazards in the subsurface. The ESMP shall summarize soil and
groundwater analytical data collected on the project site during past investigations; identify
management options for excavated soil and groundwater, if contaminated media are encountered during
deep excavations; and identify monitoring, irrigation, or other wells requiring proper abandonment in
compliance with local, State, and federal laws, policies, and regulations.
The ESMP shall include measures for identifying, testing, and managing soil and groundwater suspected
of or known to contain hazardous materials. The ESMP shall: 1) provide procedures for evaluating,
handling, storing, testing, and disposing of soil and groundwater during project excavation and
dewatering activities, respectively; 2) describe required worker health and safety provisions for all
workers potentially exposed to hazardous materials in accordance with State and federal worker safety
regulations; and 3) designate personnel responsible for implementation of the ESMP.
Mitigation Measure HAZ-4b: For those sites with potential residual volatile contamination in soil,
gas, or groundwater that are planned for redevelopment with an overlying occupied building, a vapor
intrusion assessment shall be performed by a licensed environmental professional. If the results of the
vapor intrusion assessment indicate the potential for significant vapor intrusion into an occupied
building, project design shall include vapor controls or source removal, as appropriate, in accordance
with regulatory agency requirements. Soil vapor mitigations or controls could include passive venting
and/or active venting. The vapor intrusion assessment and associated vapor controls or source removal
can be incorporated into the ESMP (Mitigation Measure HAZ-4a).
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
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HAZ-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not impair
implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan.
The City of Cupertino Office of Emergency Services is responsible for coordinating agency response to
disasters or other large-scale emergencies in the City of Cupertino with assistance from the Santa Clara
County Office of Emergency Services and the SCCFD. The Cupertino Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
establishes policy direction for emergency planning, mitigation, response, and recovery activities within the
City. The Cupertino EOP addresses interagency coordination, procedures to maintain communications with
county and State emergency response teams, and methods to assess the extent of damage and management
of volunteers.
In addition, the General Plan contains policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure that new
development would not conflict with emergency operations in Cupertino. Within the Health and Safety
Element, Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, directs the City to coordinate with Santa
Clara County and local agencies to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
(LHMP) for Santa Clara County. This policy also includes three new strategies that would direct the City to
enact this Policy. Strategy 1, Monitoring and Budgeting, requires the City to monitor and fund the LHMP
program. Strategy 2, Mitigation Incorporation, requires the City to ensure that individual projects and
developments incorporate appropriate LHMP mitigation measures. Strategy 3, Hazard Mitigation Plan
Amendments and Updates, supports Santa Clara County’s efforts as the lead agency for the LHMP. Through
Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, and its attendant strategies, the City of Cupertino
would actively facilitate regional emergency response plans. Policy 6-8, Early Project Review, requires the
City to involve the Fire Department in the early design stage of all projects requiring public review to assure
Fire Department input and modifications as needed. Policy 6-9, Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection
Guidelines, requires the City to coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new guidelines for fire
protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-10, Fire Prevention and Emergency
Preparedness, requires the City to promote fire prevention and emergency preparedness through city-
initiated public education programs, through the government television channel, the Internet and the
Cupertino Scene. Policy 6-13, Roadway Design, requires the City to involve the Fire Department in the
design of public roadways for review and comments. Attempt to ensure that roadways have frequent median
breaks for timely access to properties. Policy 6-14, Dead-End Street Access, requires the City to allow the
public use of private roadways during an emergency for hillside subdivisions that have dead-end public
streets longer than 1,000 feet or find a secondary means of access. Policy 6-15, Hillside Access Routes,
directs the city to require new hillside development to have frequent grade breaks in access routes to ensure
a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-16, Hillside Road Upgrades, directs the city to require new
hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire Code and City standards. Policy 6-17,
Private Residential Electronic Security Gates, requires the City to discourage the use of private residential
electronic security gates that act as a barrier to emergency personnel. Policy 6-33, Promote Emergency
Preparedness, requires the City to distribute multi-hazard emergency preparedness information for all
threats identified in the emergency plan. Information will be provided through Cardio-Pulmonary
Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, lectures and
seminars on emergency preparedness, publication of monthly safety articles in the Cupertino Scene, posting
of information on the Emergency Preparedness website and coordination of video and printed information
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at the library. Policy 6-38, Emergency Operations Center, requires the City to ensure ongoing training of
identified City employees on their functions/responsibilities in the EOC. Policy 6-39, Emergency Public
Information, requires the City to maintain an Emergency Public Information program to be used during
emergency situations. Policy 6-42, Evacuation Map, requires the City to prepare and update periodically an
evacuation map for the flood hazard areas and distribute it to the general public.
Compliance, with applicable federal, State, and local laws and regulations regarding handling of these
materials, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous
Materials, and the General Plan policies listed above would ensure future development under Land Use
Alternative B would not interfere with, an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan
and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not expose people or
structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland
fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands.
According to California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFIRE), there are no very high fire
hazard severity zones with the Local Responsibility Areas of Cupertino. Furthermore, in 2009 the City
adopted a Wildland Urban Interface Fire Area map, which also identified that there are no high or very high
fire risk areas near the overall Study Area. Although this indicated that the wildfire risk in the overall Study
Area is low, there are many resources available to address wildland fires should they arise, including the
CalFIRE Strategic Plan, the California Fire Code (CFC), and cooperative fire services from SCCFD and
CalFIRE, as described in Section 4.7.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.7, Hazards and Hazardous
Materials, of this Draft EIR. Because the locations of the potential future development under the Land Use
Alternative B is located in a highly urbanized area at a distance from regional open space areas, they are not
subjected to wildland fires.
In addition, the current General Plan contains the following policies that, once adopted, would to further
ensure that wildfire hazards would be minimized. Within the Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-1,
Regional Hazard Risk Reduction Planning, directs the City to coordinate with Santa Clara County and local
agencies to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) for Santa Clara
County. This policy also includes three new strategies that would direct the City to enact this Policy.
Strategy 1, Monitoring and Budgeting, would require the City to monitor and fund the LHMP program.
Strategy 2, Mitigation Incorporation, ensures that individual projects and developments incorporate
appropriate LHMP mitigation measures. Strategy 3, Hazard Mitigation Plan Amendments and Updates,
supports Santa Clara County’s efforts as the lead agency for the LHMP. Through Policy 6-1, Regional
Hazard Risk Reduction Planning and its attendant strategies, the City of Cupertino would comply with
regional plans for addressing local hazards, including wildfire. Policy 6-4, Wild Fire Prevention Efforts,
would require the City to coordinate wild fire prevention efforts with adjacent jurisdictions. Policy 6-5,
County Fire Hazard Reduction, would require the City to encourage the County to put into effect the fire
reduction policies of the County Public Safety Element. Policy 6-6, Fuel Management to Reduce Fire
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Hazard, would require the City to encourage the Midpeninsula Open Space District and the County Parks
Department to continue efforts in fuel management to reduce fire hazards. Policy 6-7, Green Fire Breaks,
would require the City to encourage the Midpeninsula Open Space District to consider “green” firebreak
uses for open space lands. Policy 6-8, Early Project Review, would require the City to involve the Fire
Department in the early design stage of all projects requiring public review to assure Fire Department input
and modifications as needed. Policy 6-9, Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection Guidelines, would
require the City to coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new guidelines for fire protection for
commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-11, Multi-Story Buildings Fire Risks, would require the City
to recognize that multi-story buildings of any land use type increase risks of fire, and ensure that adequate
fire protection is built into the design and require on-site fire suppression materials and equipment to
ensure the safety of the community. Policy 6-12, Smoke Detectors, directs the City to require smoke
detectors in all new residential units, and in all residential units at time of sale or rental, in conformance
with State law, and to continue to use the Cupertino Scene to publicize fire hazards correction methods.
Strategy 1, Code Amendment, would require the City to adopt an ordinance to incorporate the smoke
detector requirement in Chapter 16.04 of the Cupertino Municipal Code.
Compliance with these General Plan policies and strategies, combined with the policies listed above under
Impact HAZ-5, would ensure that impacts from wildland hazards would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HAZ-7 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to hazards and hazardous
materials.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by the proposed Project within the Cupertino city boundary
and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG).
This chapter analyzes potential cumulative hazardous impacts that could arise from a combination of the
development of Land Use Alternative B together with the regional growth in the immediate vicinity of the
Project Study Area.
As discussed previously, development allowed by Land Use Alternative B would not result in significant
impacts from the increased use of hazardous household materials and would not increase exposure to
potential hazards associated with wildland fires. Land Use Alternative B would not interfere with
implementation of emergency response plans. In addition, potential project-level impacts associated with
hazards and hazardous materials would be further reduced through compliance with General Plan policies
and strategies, other local, regional, State, and federal regulations, and with implementation of Mitigation
Measures HAZ-4a and HAZ-4b. Since impacts associated with hazardous materials and wildland fire, are, by
their nature, focused on specific sites or areas, the less-than-significant impacts within the Project Study
Area from Land Use Alternative B would not contribute to a cumulative increase in hazards in the
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immediate vicinity of the Project Study Area or throughout the region. Therefore, the potential for
cumulative impacts associated with safety and hazards would be less than significant.
5.3.7.8 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
HYDRO-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not violate any water
quality standards or waste discharge requirements.
Development or redevelopment that could occur under the Land Use Alternative B could affect drainage
patterns and increase the overall amount of impervious surfaces, thus creating changes to storm water flows
and water quality. Increasing the total area of impervious surfaces can result in a greater potential to
introduce pollutants to receiving waters. Urban runoff can carry a variety of pollutants (i.e. oil and grease,
metals, sediments, and pesticide residues from roadways, parking lots, rooftops, landscaped areas) and
deposit them into an adjacent waterway via the storm drain system. New construction could also result in
the degradation of water quality with the clearing and grading of sites, releasing sediment, oil and greases,
and other chemicals to nearby water bodies. However, future development permitted by the Land Use
Alternative B would be located on underutilized, infill sites, all of which have already been developed and
currently have a high percentage of impervious surfaces.
As discussed in Section 4.8.1.1 Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of
this Draft EIR, water quality in storm water runoff is regulated locally by the Santa Clara Valley Urban
Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, which includes the Municipal Regional Storm Water National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit (MRP) C.3 provisions set by the San Francisco Bay
RWQCB.
Adherence to these permit conditions would require new development or redevelopment projects to
incorporate treatment measures, an agreement to maintain them, and other appropriate source control and
site design features that reduce pollutants in runoff to the maximum extent practicable. Many of the
requirements involve LID practices such as the use of onsite infiltration that reduce pollutant loading.
Incorporation of these measures can even improve on existing conditions.
In addition, future development would be required to comply with the NPDES Permit (Municipal Code
Chapter 9.18, Stormwater Pollution Prevention and Watershed Protection) and implement a construction
SWPPP that require the incorporation of BMPs to control sedimentation, erosion, and hazardous materials
contamination of runoff during construction.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, protect water quality and reduce
potential impacts to water quality as a result of implementation of potential future development in the city.
Policy 5-18, Natural Water Bodies and Drainage Systems, directs the City to require that site design respect
the natural topography and drainages to the extent practicable to reduce the amount of grading necessary
and limit disturbance to natural water bodies and natural drainage systems caused by development including
roads, highways and bridges. The supporting Strategy would require the City to encourage volunteer
organizations to help restore and clean creek beds in Cupertino to reduce pollution and help return
waterways to their natural state. Policy 5-19, Reduction of Impervious Surfaces, would require the City to
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minimize storm water flow and erosion impacts resulting from development. Strategy 1 would require the
City to include a formula regulating how much paved surface is allowable on each lot. This would include
driveways and patios installed at the time of building or remodeling. Strategy 2 would require the City to
encourage the use of non-impervious materials for walkways and driveways. If used in a City or quasi-public
area, mobility and access for the disabled should always take precedent. Strategy 3 would require the City to
minimize impervious surface areas, minimizing directly-connected impervious surfaces, maximizing onsite
infiltration and using on-site retaining facilities. Policy 5-20, Pollution and Flow Impacts, states that the City,
prior to making land use decisions, estimate increases in pollutant loads and flows resulting from projected
future development to avoid surface and groundwater quality impacts. Strategy 1, require incorporation of
structural and non-structural Best Management Practices (BMPs) to mitigate the projected increases in
pollutant loads and flows. Policy 5-21, Compact Development Away from Sensitive Areas, directs the City
that where such measures do not conflict with other municipal purposes or goals, to encourage, via zoning
ordinances, compact development located away from creeks, wetlands, and other sensitive areas. Policy 5-
22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning, encourage
development projects to follow watershed-based planning and zoning by examining the project in the
context of the entire watershed area. Strategy 1 would require the City to develop and maintain a Storm
Drainage Master Plan and work with other agencies to develop broader Watershed Management Plans to
model the City’s hydrology. The Storm Drainage Master Plan should identify facilities needed to prevent
“10-year” event street flooding and “100-year” event structure flooding. Also identify opportunities to meet
water quality protection needs in a cost-effective manner. Policy 5-32, Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention
Program, would require the City to support and participate in the SCVURPPP in order to work
cooperatively with other cities to improve the quality of storm water runoff discharge into San Francisco
Bay. Strategy 1, Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management, would require the City to implement the
Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to
reduce urban runoff from project sites. Strategy 2, would require the City to implement the
Hydromodification Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to manage runoff
flow and volume from project sites. Policy 5-33, Illicit Discharge into Storm Drains and Waterways, would
require the City to prohibit the discharge of pollutants and the illicit dumping of wastes into the storm
drains, creeks and waterways. The supporting Strategy would require the City to partner with public,
private, and non-profit agencies on public outreach and education on the importance of responsible
stormwater management. Policy 5-34, Storm Water Runoff, would require the City to investigate
opportunities to retain or detain storm runoff on new development. Strategy 1 Would require the City to
ensure that private development includes adequate measures to treat stormwater runoff and maximize
opportunities to filter, infiltrate, store and reuse or evaporate stormwater runoff onsite. Policy 5-36,
Mitigation for Potential Storm Water Impacts, directs the City to require mitigation measures for potential
storm water pollutant impacts for projects subject to environmental review. Policy 5-37, Pest-Resistant
Landscaping and Design Features, would require the City to encourage the consideration of pest-resistant
landscaping and design features, including the landscaping and design of storm water detention and
retention facilities proposed in development projects. Other design features that are encouraged include
green roofs and onsite treatment of grey water for irrigation.
While implementation of this Alternative would permit new office, commercial and hotel development, and
new housing units to meet projected housing demands, as described above, it does not contain any policies
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that would directly or indirectly result in violations of water quality standards. Therefore, implementation of
this alternative would have a less-than-significant impact on water quality.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-2 Implementation of the Land Use Alternative B would not substantially
deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater
recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a
lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g. the production rate of
pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support
existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted).
Planned future development for this Alternative could result in an increase in impervious surfaces, which
would reduce infiltration and could lead to reduced groundwater recharge. However, as previously
described, future development permitted by this Alternative would be located on underutilized, infill sites,
most of which have already been developed and currently have a high percentage of impervious surfaces. The
Applicants for new development and redevelopment would be encouraged to implement site design
measures, LID, and BMPs, including infiltration features, that will contribute to groundwater recharge and
minimize storm water runoff. As discussed in Impact HYDRO-1, General Plan Policy 5-19, Reduction of
Impervious Surfaces, would require minimizing impervious surface areas, minimizing directly connected
impervious surfaces, maximizing onsite infiltration and using on-site retaining facilities among other
strategies. In addition, given the Project Component locations, future development would not interfere with
groundwater recharge that takes place in the McClellan Ponds recharge facility located within the City of
Cupertino or the creeks and streams that run through the city.
While buildout of this Alternative could lead to an increased demand for water, which could lead to an
increase in groundwater pumping, water supply impacts are discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service
Systems, of this Draft EIR. As discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems, water retailers for
the City of Cupertino obtain their water from groundwater wells and purchases from SCVWD. The
SCVWD’s 2010 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) indicates that there is a sufficient supply of water
through 2035 even for multiple dry years.22 In addition, the SCVWD operates and maintains an active
groundwater recharge program with 18 major recharge systems, over 70 off-stream ponds with a combined
surface area of more than 320 acres, and over 30 local creeks. Runoff is captured in the SCVWD’s reservoirs
and released into both in-stream and off-stream recharge ponds for percolation into the groundwater basin.
In addition, imported water is delivered by the raw water conveyance system to streams and ponds. The use
of site design features required by C.3 provisions of the MRP and compliance with the City of Cupertino
General Plan policies listed in Impact HYDRO-1 would reduce the impact of increased impervious surfaces
on groundwater recharge. Therefore, implementation of this Alternative would have a less-than-
significant impact with respect to groundwater supplies or groundwater recharge.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
22 Santa Clara Valley Water District, 2010. Urban Water Management Plan.
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HYDRO-3 Implementation of the Land Use Alternative B would not substantially alter
the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the
alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner that would result
in substantial erosion, siltation, or flooding on- or off-site.
Development within the Project Component and the change in land uses will result in an increase in
impervious surfaces. This could result in an increase in storm water runoff, higher peak discharges to
drainage channels, and the potential to cause erosion or sedimentation in drainage swales and streams.
Increased runoff volumes and velocities could create nuisance flooding in areas without adequate drainage
facilities. However, none of the future development would require alteration of the course of an existing
stream. Most of the future development sites are in infill areas that are already developed or paved and new
development on these sites should not create a substantial increase in the amount of impervious surfaces.
All new development and redevelopment projects will be required, pursuant to the Santa Clara Valley Urban
Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) and MRP, to implement construction phase BMPs,
post-construction design measures that encourage maximize infiltration in pervious areas, and post-
construction source control measures to help keep pollutants out of storm water. In addition, post-
construction storm water treatment measures are required for most projects with 10,000 square feet or
more of impervious surface and post-construction storm water quantity (flow peak, volume, and duration)
controls are required for projects in certain locations with one acre or more of impervious surface, in
accordance with the SCVURPPP’s Hydromodification Management Plan (HMP). This would minimize the
amount of storm water runoff from new development and redevelopment sites within the city.
During construction, project applicants are subject to the NPDES construction permit requirements,
including preparation of a SWPPP. In addition, Section 16.08.110, Interim Erosion and Sediment Control
Plan, of the City’s Municipal Code would require preparation of an Interim Erosion and Sediment Control
Plan, either integrated with the site map/grading plan or submitted separately, that calculates the maximum
runoff from the site for the ten-year storm event and describes measures to be undertaken to retain
sediment on the site, a brief description of the surface runoff and erosion control measures to be
implemented, and vegetative measures to be undertaken. These control measures would further reduce the
potential for substantial erosion or siltation and would ensure that runoff from the site is protective of the
beneficial uses of receiving waters. Once constructed, the requirements for new development or
redevelopment would include source control measures and site design measures that address storm water
runoff and would reduce the potential for erosion or siltation.
In addition, Provisions C.3 of the MRP require new development and redevelopment projects, meeting
certain criteria, to implement storm water treatment measures to contain site runoff, using specific
numeric sizing criteria based on volume and flow rate. For hydromodification projects, post-project runoff
shall not exceed estimated pre-project rates and durations where the increased storm water discharge rates
and durations would result in increased potential for erosion.23
23 Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, 2014. Website: http://www.scvurppp-w2k.com/nd_wp.shtml#
other accessed on May 3, 2014.
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The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would further prevent soil erosion and
reduce impacts to water quality. Policy 5-10, Landscaping Near Natural Vegetation, per the City’s Water
Efficient Landscaping Ordinance, Environmentally Preferable Procurement Policy, and the Parks &
Recreation Green Policies, would require the City to continue to emphasize drought tolerant and pest-
resistant native and non-invasive, non-native, drought tolerant plants and ground covers when landscaping
public and private properties near natural vegetation, particularly for control of erosion from disturbance to
the natural terrain. Policy 5-19, discussed above, would require the City to minimize storm water flow and
erosion impacts resulting from development. Policy 5-20, Pollution and Flow Impacts, states that the City,
prior to making land use decisions, estimate increases in pollutant loads and flows resulting from projected
future development to avoid surface and groundwater quality impacts. Strategy 1, require incorporation of
structural and non-structural Best Management Practices (BMPs) to mitigate the projected increases in
pollutant loads and flows. In addition Policy 6-47, Hillside Grading, would require the City to restrict the
extent and timing of hillside grading operation to April through October. Require performance bonds
during the remaining time to guarantee the repair of any erosion damage. All graded slopes must be planted
as soon as practical after grading is complete.
With implementation of the erosion and sediment control measures and regulatory provisions to limit
runoff for new development and redevelopment sites, and implementation of the General Plan policies and
strategies, future development under this Alternative would not result in significant increases in erosion and
sedimentation or contribute to on-site or off-site flooding. Therefore, implementation of Land Use
Alternative B would have a less-than-significant impact with respect to drainage patterns.
HYDRO-4 Implementation of the Land Use Alternative B would create or contribute
runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm
water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff.
As discussed previously, an increase in impervious surfaces with implementation of this Alternative could
result in an increase in storm water runoff that could exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water
drainage systems. Under existing conditions, portions of the City’s storm drainage systems are not capable
of containing the runoff from 10-year storm events.24 As shown in Table 4.8-2, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology
and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR, there are existing deficiencies in the Project Component locations that
could be exacerbated by potential future development under this Alternative.
In accordance with established City and County requirements, new development and redevelopment
projects must be designed such that the storm water runoff generated from the ten-year storm is conveyed
in the storm drainage system (underground pipes or open channels) and the storm water runoff generated
from the 100-year design storm must be safely conveyed away from the site without creating and/or
contributing to downstream or upstream flooding conditions.25 In addition, the City of Cupertino would
require that post-project storm water runoff rates be less than or equal to pre-project values for projects
24 City of Cupertino, 1993. Storm Drain Master Plan.
25 Santa Clara County, 2007. Drainage Manual. Adopted August 14, 2007.
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subject to hydromodification requirements and where storm drain facilities are at or have exceeded system
capacities.26 Therefore, future development associated with this Alternative would not be expected to result
in downstream flooding but could exacerbate existing conditions of the storm drain system, which is
undersized to convey the 10-year storm event at some locations.
New development and redevelopment within the city would not create substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff. During the construction phase, projects would be required to prepare SWPPPs and erosion
and sediment control plans, thus limiting the discharge of pollutants from the site. During operation,
projects must implement BMPs and LID measures that minimize the amount of storm water runoff and
associated pollutants. Additionally, new development or redevelopment projects would be required to pay
storm drainage fees pursuant to City Council Resolution No. 12-033to support expansion and
improvements to the existing storm drain system. Also, as discussed in Impact HYDRO-1 and HYDRO-3,
the General Plan includes polices and strategies that require the City to minimize storm water flow and
erosion impacts resulting from development, Support and participate in the SCVURPPP, implement the
Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to
reduce urban runoff from project sites, require mitigation measures for potential storm water pollutant
impacts for projects subject to environmental review, and encourage the consideration of design features,
including the landscaping and design of storm water detention and retention facilities proposed in
development projects. Specifically, Policy 5-22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with
Watershed-Based Planning, would encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning and
zoning by examining the project in the context of the entire watershed area. By encouraging improved
stormwater drainage, including project-practices to prevent runoff, this policy would serve to deploy
strategies to decrease runoff and prevent increases to stormwater entering the drainage system.
Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy 5-22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance
with Watershed-Based Planning, would encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning
and zoning by examining the project in the context of the entire watershed area. Policy 5-32 would
incorporate new proposed Strategy 1, which would direct the City to implement the Post-Construction
Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff
from project sites, and Strategy 2, which would direct the City to implement the Hydromodification
Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to manage runoff flow and volume from
project sites. Policy 5-32, Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, would require the City to support
and participate in the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) in order
to work cooperatively with other cities to improve the quality of storm water runoff discharge into San
Francisco Bay. Strategy 1, Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management, would require the City to
implement the Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES
Permit to reduce urban runoff from project sites. Strategy 2, Hydromodification Management, would
require the City to implement the Hydromodification Management requirements of the City’s Municipal
NPDES Permit to manage runoff flow and volume from project sites. Policy 5-34, Storm Water Runoff,
includes a new strategy that would direct the City to “ensure that private development includes adequate
measures to treat stormwater runoff,” and to “maximize opportunities to filter, infiltrate, store and reuse or
26 Verbal communication with Fletcher Parsons, BKF and Chad Mosley, City of Cupertino, March 19, 2014.
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evaporate stormwater runoff onsite.” By encouraging improved stormwater drainage, management, and
retention, these policies would serve to prevent or reduce unmanaged runoff that could exceed the capacity
of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted
runoff.
Implementation of General Plan policies and strategies aimed at reducing storm water and compliance with
the mandatory regulation outlined in this discussion would ensure development consistent with this
Alternative would not require significant expansions of the existing storm water drainage infrastructure
Therefore, impacts associated with future development runoff would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not otherwise
substantially degrade water quality.
Increased runoff from the construction of impermeable surfaces as the Project Component locations are
developed could worsen water quality in the storm water runoff. Pollutants commonly associated with
construction sites that can impact storm water are sediments, nutrients, trace metals, pesticides, oil, grease,
fuels, and miscellaneous construction wastes. Pollutants generated from the proposed land uses of the
Project Study Area may include sediment, nutrients, bacteria and viruses, oil and grease, metals, organics,
pesticides/herbicides, and trash/debris.
As required by City and County storm water management guidelines, BMPs would be implemented during
both construction and operation of this Alternative. These BMPs would control and prevent the release of
sediment, debris, and other pollutants into receiving water bodies. Implementation of BMPs during
construction would be in accordance with the provisions of the SWPPP, which would minimize the release
of sediment, soil, and other pollutants. Operational BMPs would be required to meet MRP requirements,
which include site design, source control, and treatment control measures to treat and control runoff before
it enters the storm drain system or receiving water bodies.
Additionally, implementation of Policy 5-22 Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with
Watershed-Based Planning would direct the City to “identify opportunities to meet water quality protection
needs in a cost-effective manner,” which would also serve to prevent degradation of water quality. Policy
5-22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning, would encourage
development projects to follow watershed-based planning and zoning by examining the project in the
context of the entire watershed area. Policy 5-32, Ground Water Recharge Sites, would incorporate new
Strategy 1, which would direct the City to implement the Post-Construction Urban Runoff Management
requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff from project sites, and Strategy
2, which would direct the City to implement the Hydromodification Management requirements of the
City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to manage runoff flow and volume from project sites. Policy 5-32, Urban
Runoff Pollution Prevention Program, would require the City to support and participate in the Santa Clara
Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) in order to work cooperatively with other
cities to improve the quality of storm water runoff discharge into San Francisco Bay. Strategy 1, Post-
Construction Urban Runoff Management, would require the City to implement the Post-Construction
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Urban Runoff Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to reduce urban runoff
from project sites. Strategy 2, Hydromodification Management, would require the City to implement the
Hydromodification Management requirements of the City’s Municipal NPDES Permit to manage runoff
flow and volume from project sites. Policy 5-34, Storm Water Runoff, includes a new strategy that would
direct the City to “ensure that private development includes adequate measures to treat stormwater runoff,”
and to “maximize opportunities to filter, infiltrate, store and reuse or evaporate stormwater runoff onsite.”
By encouraging improved stormwater drainage, management, and retention, these policies would serve to
prevent or reduce unmanaged runoff that could substantially degrade water quality.
With implementation of these BMPs in accordance with City and County requirements, the potential
impact on water quality would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not place housing within
a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a Federal Flood Hazard
Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation
map or place structures that would impede or redirect flood flows within a
100-year flood hazard area.
Implementation of the Land Use Alternative B would not result in the development of residential structures
in existing FEMA-designated 100-year floodplains or Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). As shown on
Figure 4.8-4, the areas within Cupertino and the Sphere of Influence that are within the 100-year floodplain
are limited and are areas located immediately adjacent to creeks and drainage channels that travel through
the city. The Project Components locations relative to the 100-year floodplains are shown on Figure 4.8-4 in
Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR.
Regnart Creek and Calabasas Creek and their associated 100-year floodplains pass through portions of the
South De Anza and the Heart of the City Special Areas, which are proposed to include new housing and/or
new development. However, the FEMA floodplain maps state that the 100-year flood would be contained
within the channels of these creeks at some of the locations within the Special Areas. Calabasas Creek and its
associated 100-year floodplain also pass through the North Vallco Park Special Area. However, no new
housing is proposed in the portion of the North Vallco Park Special Area where the 100-year floodplain is
located. General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites 39, 44, and 45 are also in areas mapped as
including the 100-foot wide 100-year floodplain. However, these sites are proposed to be rezoned as PR
(park and recreation) so no new housing or structures would be located in these areas.
As described in Section 4.8.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this
Draft EIR, under the subheading “Waterways,” the creeks that run through Cupertino pose little threat of
flooding as a result of effort by the City and SCVWD to modify, restore and improve the flow channels and
implement erosion control measures to reduce impacts from flooding.
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Land Use Alternative B includes General Plan policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure
potential impacts from flooding would not occur with the implementation of the potential future
development. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element Within the Land Use/Community Design
Element, Policy 5-49 would require the City to maintain storm drainage infrastructure to reduce flood
hazards and meet the needs of 10-year storm events, with developers contributing as necessary to the
creation of those systems. This policy would serve to prevent flooding both in general as a result of
development on individual sites. Under this policy, the City would plan for potential infrastructure
specifically designed to mitigate flood flows, including within the 100-year floodplain. As individual flood
control or stormwater system projects are proposed, such projects would undergo project-level
environmental review that would evaluate and address potential adverse physical effects. Additionally, within
the Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-35 would require the City to protect itself from sea level rise.
Strategy 1 under this policy would direct the City to coordinate with other agencies to evaluate the potential
effects of ongoing sea level rise in order to determine appropriate actions, and Strategy 2 would require the
City to maintain up-to-date flood insurance maps to identify the effects of rising sea levels. This strategy
would serve to prevent impacts of increased future flooding due to rising sea levels.
In addition, the City of Cupertino has adopted local standards for construction in floodplain areas,27 and
together with Santa Clara County, there are restrictions on construction within 50 feet of a stream, which
includes most of the designated 100-year floodplains within the city.28 If future development were to be
constructed within the 100-year flood zone, it would require the placement of fill to elevate structures
above the 100-year floodplain elevation. In order for the development to be considered outside of the
floodplain and no longer subject to special flood hazard requirements, the applicant would have to submit an
application to FEMA for a Letter of Map Revision – Fill (LOMR-F) after the fill has been placed. After
FEMA has revised the FIRM to show that the future development is now outside of the SFHA, the City
would no longer be required to apply the minimum NFIP floodplain management standards to structures
built on the land and the mandatory flood insurance requirements would no longer apply. However, as part
of its floodplain management strategy, to reduce possible loss of life and property in the event of a flood, the
City would encourage compliance with as many of the standards as financially feasible.
Construction within SFHAs is governed by the City’s Municipal Code Chapter 16.52 (Prevention of Flood
Damage), Section 16.52.040 (General Standards), which sets forth construction requirements for
development that would minimize flood hazard risks, including anchoring and flood-proofing; limitations on
use for structures below the base flood elevation; use of materials and utility equipment resistant to flood
damage; the requirement that electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air conditioning equipment and
other service facilities be designed and/or located to prevent water from entering or accumulating within
the components during flood conditions; and the requirement that all new and replacement water supply
and sanitary sewage systems be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the system
and discharge from systems into floodwaters.
Because Land Use Alternative B would not include the placement of housing within the 100-year floodplain,
would include planning for management of flood flows, and would require any new construction to comply
27 City of Cupertino, Municipal Code Chapter 16.52, Prevention of Flood Damage.
28 City of Cupertino, Municipal Code, Chapter 9.19, Water Resource Protection.
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with General Plan policies, the City Municipal Code, and Santa Clara County water course protection
requirements, which limit construction within 50 feet of a stream, the potential for flood hazards would be
reduced to less-than-significant levels.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
HYDRO-7 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not expose people or
structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding,
including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam.
According to mapping compiled by ABAG and Office of Emergency Services (OES),29 as shown on Figure
4.8-5, in Chapter 4.8, Hydrology and Water Quality, of this Draft EIR, portions of Cupertino are within the
Stevens Creek Reservoir inundation zone. Specific areas of planned development within the city that could
be impacted with flooding in the unlikely event that the dam failed include the Homestead Special Area,
North Vallco Park Special Area, Study Areas 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire), 3 (PG&E), 4 (Mirapath),
and 5 (Cupertino Village), Housing Element Sites 10 (The Hamptons), 12 (Homestead Lanes and
Adjacency), and 17 (Homestead Road – IntraHealth/Office/Tennis Courts), portions of Monta Vista Village
Neighborhood and Vallco Park North Special Area; and Other Non-Residential/Mixed-Use Special Areas
Sites 3, 6, and 7.
Dam inundation zones are based on the highly unlikely scenario of a total catastrophic dam failure occurring
in a very short period of time. Existing state and local regulations address the potential for flood hazards as a
result of dam failure. The Stevens Creek Reservoir is under the jurisdiction of the California Department of
Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD), which conducts annual inspections and reviews all
aspects of dam safety. The dam has been assessed for seismic stability and will withstand the maximum
credible earthquake. The SCVWD is also planning to implement additional remedial measures to assure the
continued safe operation of the dam. Dam owners are also required to maintain EAPs that include
procedures for damage assessment and emergency warnings. In addition, the City of Cupertino in
conjunction with Santa Clara County addresses the possibility of dam failure in the Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan (LHMP), which also provides emergency response actions.
The probability of dam failure is extremely low and the City of Cupertino and Santa Clara County have
never been impacted by a major dam failure. Furthermore, the General Plan includes policies and strategies
that, once adopted, would be aimed at reducing impacts from dam failure. Policy 6-43, Emergency
Response to Dam Failure, would require the City to ensure that Cupertino is prepared to respond to a
potential dam failure. Strategy 1 would require the City to maintain a dam emergency and evacuation plan.
Strategy 2 would require the City to continue to coordinate dam-related evacuation plans with the City of
Sunnyvale to ensure that traffic management between the two cities facilitates life safety.
29 Association of Bay Area Governments, 2003. Dam Inundation Hazard Map for Cupertino, Website www.abag.ca.gov/cgi-
bin/pickdamx.pl (accessed April 9, 2014).
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Proposed Policy 5-49 would require the City to maintain storm drainage infrastructure to reduce flood
hazards and meet the needs of 10-year storm events, with developers contributing as necessary to the
creation of those systems. This policy serves to prevent flooding both in general and a result of development
on individual sites. Under this policy, the City would plan for potential infrastructure specifically designed
to mitigate flood flows, including those that could threaten life or property. As individual flood control or
stormwater system projects are proposed, such projects would undergo project-level environmental review
that would evaluate and address potential adverse physical effects.
Proposed Policy 6-1 would require the City to coordinate with Santa Clara County and local agencies to
implement the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). Strategies under this policy
would require the City to monitor the program and evaluate its success, to ensure that mitigations from the
LHMP are integrated into individual projects, and to support Santa Clara County in its efforts as lead
agency for the LHMP. This policy would serve to ensure that the City acts to reduce risks from flooding that
could threaten lives or property. Additionally, proposed Policy 6-35 would direct the City to protect itself
from sea level rise. Strategy 1 under this policy would require the City to coordinate with other agencies to
evaluate the potential effects of ongoing sea level rise in order to determine appropriate actions, and
Strategy 2 would direct the City to maintain up-to-date flood insurance maps to identify the effects of rising
sea levels. This strategy serves to prevent impacts of increased future flooding due to rising sea levels.
Therefore, implementation of these policies and strategies, adherence to the Joint Stevens Creek Dam
Failure Plan together with the very low probability of dam failure and the fact that the dam has been assessed
for seismic stability and will withstand the maximum credible earthquake, implementation of the proposed
Project would not expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death in the case of dam
failure and impacts are considered to be less than significant.
HYDRO-8 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not have inundation by
seiche, tsunami, or mudflow.
Because the City of Cupertino is more than eight (8) miles south of San Francisco Bay and is more than 100
feet above mean sea level (msl), there is no potential for a tsunami to impact the Project Study Area.30 There
are no large bodies of water within the City of Cupertino that could generate seiches, but the City is located
just north of Stevens Creek Reservoir. A seiche could theoretically occur in this reservoir as the result of an
earthquake or other disturbance, but the flooding impact would less than that of the dam inundation zone.
Although limited portions of the southern tip of Cupertino are within areas that could result in landslides
and debris flows, these areas are primarily open space or very low-density hillside homes. None of the
Project Component locations are within ABAG mapped rainfall-induced landslide or earthquake-induced
landslide zones. Therefore, impacts due to seiches, tsunamis, or mudflows would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
30 Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), 2014. Interactive Tsunami Inundation Map. Accessed at: http://gis.abag.ca.gov/
website/Tsunami/index.html on April 5, 2014.
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HYDRO-9 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to water quality.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by the proposed Project within the Cupertino city boundary
and SOI, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the
surrounding region, as forecast by the ABAG. The geographic context used for the cumulative assessment of
water quality and hydrology impacts encompasses the six watersheds, which encompass the City of
Cupertino. Cumulative impacts can occur when impacts that are significant or less than significant from a
proposed project combine with similar impacts from other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable projects
in a similar geographic area.
As discussed previously, implementation of the Land Use Alternative B would require conformance with
State and local policies that would reduce hydrology and water quality impacts to less-than-significant
levels. When applicable, any additional new development within the city would be subject, on a project-by-
project basis, to independent CEQA review as well as policies in the Cupertino General Plan, design
guidelines, Zoning Ordinance, and other applicable City requirements that reduce impacts related to
hydrology and water quality. More specifically, potential changes related to storm water quality, storm water
flows, drainage, impervious surfaces, and flooding would be minimized via the implementation of storm
water control measures, retention, infiltration, and LID measures, and review by the City’s Public Works
Department to integrate measures to reduce potential flooding impacts.
All cumulative projects would be subject to similar permit requirements and would be required to comply
with City ordinances and General Plan policies, as well as numerous water quality regulations that control
construction related and operational discharge of pollutants in storm water. The water quality regulations
implemented by the San Francisco Bay RWQCB take a basin-wide approach and consider water quality
impairment in a regional context. For example, the NPDES Construction Permit ties receiving water
limitations and basin plan objectives to terms and conditions of the permit, and the MS4 Permit works with
all municipalities to manage storm water systems to be collectively protective of water quality. For these
reasons, impacts of this Alternative on hydrology and water quality are not cumulatively considerable and
the cumulative impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.3.7.9 LAND USE AND PLANNING
LU-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not physically divide an
established community.
Implementation of the Land Use Alternative B would result in a significant impact if it would lead to new
development or physical features that would divide existing communities. The physical division of an
established community typically refers to the construction of a physical feature (such as a wall, interstate
highway, or railroad tracks) or the removal of a means of access (such as a local road or bridge) that would
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impair mobility within an existing community, or between a community and outlying areas. An example of a
physical feature that would divide an existing community is an airport, roadway, or railroad track through an
existing community that could constrain travel from one side of the community to another or impair travel
to areas outside of the community.
As described in Section 4.9.1.2, Existing Conditions, in Chapter 4.9, Land Use and Planning, of this Draft
EIR, the development proposed as part of Land Use Alternative B would be located on sites either
developed and/or underutilized, and/or in close proximity to existing residential and residential-serving
development, where future development is currently permitted. Future development under Land Use
Alternative B would retain the existing roadway patterns and Land Use Alternative B does not propose any
new major roadways or other physical features through existing residential neighborhoods or other
communities that would create new barriers in the Project Study Area. New development in currently
developed areas would result from increased office, commercial, hotel and residential allocations without
dividing any existing communities.
The designation of sites for office, commercial, hotel and higher density residential development would not
physically divide any of the areas where Land Use Alternative B is identified, because the vicinity of the Sites
would all retain their predominant existing uses for office, commercial, hotel and residential use, and would
not require any new roads or other features that would divide a community. Accordingly, impacts would be
less than significant.
Furthermore, future development under Land Use Alternative B would be required to be consistent with
the General Plan polices that promote cohesive and compatible neighborhoods and prevent new
development from dividing existing uses where different land uses abut one another.
Within the Land Use and Community Design Element of the General Plan, there are several policies that
encourage cohesive development. Policy 2-2, Connections Between Special Areas, Employment Centers
and the Community, would require the City to provide strong connections between the mixed-use Special
Areas, employment centers and the surrounding community while Policy 2-5, Distinct Neighborhoods,
would require the City to plan for neighborhoods that have distinctive edges, an identifiable center and safe
pedestrian and bicycle access to surrounding uses. Policy 2-8, Neighborhood Compatibility, would require
the City to minimize potential conflicts between residential neighborhoods and more intense developments
with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, limitations, site design and other appropriate
measures, and create zoning requirements or specific plans that reduce incompatibilities between new
development and existing residential neighborhoods through various measures..
Policy 2-15, Urban Building Forms, would require the City to concentrate urban building forms in the
mixed-use Special Areas which would focus development in the Special Areas and away from existing low
density residential neighborhoods, and Policy 2-18, Single-Family Residential Design, would require the
City to preserve the character of residential neighborhoods by requiring new development to be compatible
with the existing neighborhood, which would allow the City to keep existing neighborhoods intact and not
divide them physically with incompatible development.. Policy 2-19, Compatibility of Lot Sizes, would
require the City to ensure that zoning, subdivision and lot line adjustment requests related to lot size or lot
design consider the need to preserve the existing pattern of lot development which would encourage the
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development of similar development as opposed to development which would not be compatible with the
neighborhood.
Policy 2-30, Monta Vista Village Neighborhood, would require the City to retain and enhance Monta Vista
Village as a residential, commercial and industrial area, with adequate pedestrian and bicycle access. Under
this policy, the commercial district should serve as a neighborhood commercial center for Monta Vista
Village and its adjoining neighborhoods. Mixed-use with residential is encouraged. The industrial area
should be retained to provide small-scale light industrial and service industrial opportunities, while
remaining compatible with the surrounding residential and commercial uses. Policy 2-26 G, South Vallco
Park Gateway, would require the City to retain and enhance South Vallco Park Gateway as a large-scale
commercial area that is a regional commercial (including hotel), office and entertainment center with
supporting residential development which would also be compatible with Policy 2-1, which would
encourage the City to focus development in Special Areas. Policy 2-24, Homestead Special Area, would
require the City to create an integrated, mixed-use commercial and housing village along Homestead Road,
consisting of three integrated areas. Each area will be master planned, with special attention to the
interconnectivity of these areas. The General Plan also identifies a policy to address Big Box Development
(Policy 2-46). This policy would require the City to consider approving big box development if it is compatible
with the surrounding area in terms of building mass and traffic, and is consistent with the City’s economic
development goals.
In order to provide easy access to recreation services, thereby creating an integrated community, the
General Plan includes Policy 2-84, Park Walking Distance, which would require the City to ensure that each
household is within a half-mile walk of a neighborhood park, or community park with neighborhood
facilities, and that the route is reasonably free of physical barriers, including streets with heavy traffic. Under
this policy, wherever possible, the City shall also provide pedestrian links between parks. When considering
locating public and quasi-public activities in commercial or office land use designated areas, the General
Plan provides direction by establishing the following criteria in Policy 2-63, Public and Quasi-Public
Activities: The proposed project must have similar building forms, population, traffic, noise and
infrastructure impacts as the existing land use categories. Additionally, in order to retain continuity of
development, under this policy the proposed project must maintain a commercial interface in commercial
designations by offering retail activities, creating a storefront appearance or other design or use options that
are similar to commercial activities.
The General Plan includes policies regarding the location and operation of New Drive-up Services (Policy
2-35) and Late Evening Entertainment (Policy 2-36) in order to promote orderly development of such uses
such that they do not divide the community. Policy 2-35 would require the City to permit new drive-up
service facilities for commercial, industrial or institutional use only when adequate circulation, parking,
noise control, architecture features, and landscaping are compatible with the visual character of the
surrounding uses and residential areas are adequately buffered while Policy 2-36 would require the City to
discourage late-evening entertainment activities such as cocktail lounges, recreational facilities and theaters
in the major mixed use corridors where they abut low-density residential properties. Under this policy such
uses may be considered with conditional use permit review when the entrances and uses are located away
from sensitive receptors/uses and appropriate mitigation measures such as adequate planting, policing,
parking designated away from sensitive receptors are incorporated.
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Additionally, policies within the Circulation Element also support the cohesive development of the City.
Policy 4-10, Roadway Plans that Complement the Needs of Adjacent Land Use, would require the City to
design roadways based on efficient alignments, appropriate number and widths of traffic lanes, inclusion of
medians, parking and bicycle lanes and the suitable width and location of sidewalks as needed to support the
adjacent properties. Policy 4-2, Defined and Balanced Circulation System, would require the city to balance
the roadway system between automobile and pedestrian/bicycle needs. The General Plan encourages
designing local streets to satisfy the aesthetic requirements of the area served. In general, the aesthetics of a
street will be improved if it can be narrower rather than wider, include significant landscaping with shade
trees, and provide safe and convenient places for people to bicycle and walk. Policy 4-14, Limited Street
Closures, would require the City to not close streets unless there is a demonstrated safety or over-whelming
through traffic problem and there are no acceptable alternatives. The policy recognizes that closures might
shift traffic to other local streets, which would move the problem from one neighborhood to another.
Finally, Policy 4-16, Transportation Noise, Fumes and Hazards, would require the City to, in addition to
limiting through traffic volume on local streets, protect the community from noise, fumes and hazards
caused by the City’s transportation system. The quarries on Stevens Canyon Road, Stevens Creek
Boulevard and Foothill Boulevard are major sources of transportation noise.
In addition, future development would also would be required to comply with Design Standards in the
Heart of the City Specific Plan, the Vallco Master Plan, and the Monta Vista Design Guidelines as described
in Section 4.9.1.1 ,Regulatory Framework, in Chapter 4.9, Land Use and Planning and the General Plan
policies set forth above, all of which would promote cohesive and compatible neighborhoods and prevent
new development from dividing existing uses where different land uses abut one another. Therefore, the
impacts from implementation of Land Use Alternative B would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
LU-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not conflict with an
applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect.
The City of Cupertino General Plan is the primary planning document for the City of Cupertino. The
proposed amendments are intended to ensure consistency between the General Plan, Housing Element and
Zoning Ordinance, and State law. Because the General Plan is the overriding planning document for the
City, and because the proposed Project involves amending the General Plan or Zoning to increase
consistency, the impact would be less than significant.
For a discussion on Land Use Alternative B’s consistency with Plan Bay Area as it relates to greenhouse gas
emissions, see Section 5.3.7.6, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, above.
For a discussion on Land Use Alternative B’s consistency with regional housing projections and Plan Bay
Area, see Section 5.3.7.11, Population and Housing, below.
For a discussion on Land Use Alternative B’s consistency with the 2002 Cupertino Pedestrian Transportation
Plan, see Section 5.3.7.13, Transportation and Traffic, below.
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As discussed in Section 4.9.1.1, Regulatory Framework, of Chapter 4.9, Land Use and Planning, there are
no airports or private airstrips within or in the immediate proximity to the city,31 and the city is not located
within any protected airspace zones defined by the Santa Clara County Airport Land Use Commission
(ALUC) 32 and has no heliports listed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA);33 thus, no conflicts with
a Comprehensive Land Use Plan for an airport would occur.
The General Plan has several policies in order to ensure that Land Use Alternative B would not conflict with
any adopted land use, policy or regulation for the purposes of mitigating an environmental effect. Policy 2-
22 would encourage the City to work toward achieving a jobs-housing balance consistent with the Housing
Element. Additionally, proposed Policy 5-2, Regional Growth and Transportation Coordination, would
direct the City to coordinate with local and regional agencies regarding regional growth and transportation
plans and would require the City to ensure that its local plans are consistent with the Regional
Transportation Plan (RTPs) and Sustainable Communities Strategy. In addition, Policy 6-1, Regional Hazard
Risk Reduction Planning, would require the City to coordinate with Santa Clara County and local agencies
to implement the Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). Strategies under this policy
would require the City to monitor the program and evaluate its success, to ensure that mitigations from the
LHMP are integrated into individual projects, and to support Santa Clara County in its efforts as lead
agency for the LHMP. Together, these policies would serve to ensure that implementation of Land Use
Alternative B would be consistent with regional land use, transportation, and hazards mitigation plans.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
LU-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to land use and planning.
As discussed in Chapter 4, Environmental Evaluation, of this Draft EIR, this EIR takes into account growth
projected by Land Use Alternative B within the Cupertino city boundary and SOI, in combination with
impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the surrounding region, as forecast by
the ABAG. The geographic context for the cumulative land use and planning effects occur from potential
future development under the General Plan combined with effects of development on lands adjacent to the
city within Los Altos and Sunnyvale to the north, Santa Clara and San Jose to the east, and Saratoga to the
south, and the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County to the west and south, and within the region.
The land use analyses finds that Land Use Alternative B would not divide an established community or
conflict with established plans, policies and regulations, or with habitat and conservation plans or policies.
Land Use Alternative B would also not create or exacerbate land use conflicts in or outside the City of
Cupertino. Land Use Alternative B would be consistent with existing and proposed changes in other local
31 AirNav, http://www.airnav.com/airports/us/CA, accessed on August 27, 2013.
32 Santa Clara County Airport Land-Use Commission, 2011. Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Santa Clara County, Norman Y. Mineta,
San Jose International Airport.
33 Federal Aviation Administration, 2011. Airport Facilities Data. www.faa.gov/airports/airport_safety/airportdata_5010/, accessed
August 13, 2013.
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and regional plans. Development that would be allowed under Land Use Alternative B would not create
substantial land use impacts. Development is likely to occur in surrounding cities and in the Santa Clara
region as well. However, such development is taking place in already urbanized areas and would not require
significant land use changes that would create land use conflicts, nor would they divide communities.
Therefore, Land Use Alternative B would not result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to
cumulative impacts related to land use changes and impacts would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.3.7.10 NOISE
NOISE-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in the exposure
of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established
in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of
other agencies.
Standards for noise generation and exposure in the City of Cupertino are determined primarily through: the
Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines (which would be continued under the noise portion of the
existing Health and Safety Section, maintained as part of Land Use Alternative B); Chapter 10.48, Noise
Control, of the Cupertino Municipal Code; as well as by the interior noise standards set by the Title 24 of
the State Building Code. Aside from the guidelines for land use noise compatibility, the City of Cupertino
has not adopted strict noise reception limits for particular uses, and times of day, and this regulatory
approach would continue under Land Use Alternative B. Therefore, there are three subsequent criteria,
based on applicable standards and regulations, which may be applied to determine impacts under this
significance threshold. Each of these is analyzed in greater detail below.
Development of new residential or other noise-sensitive land uses such that those new
uses would experience an indoor Ldn exceeding 45 dBA.
Multiple components of Land Use Alternative B would serve to prevent new residential dwellings,
hotels, motels, dormitories, and school classrooms from experiencing interior noise levels in excess of
45 dBA Ldn. Prevention of excessive interior noise levels would be achieved both through adherence to
the Land Use Noise Compatibility Standards included in the noise portion of Health and Safety Section
of the current General Plan, as well as through the performance of acoustical analysis in noisy areas,
which would help determine what, if any, noise attenuating features are necessary to achieve the 45 dBA
Ldn interior noise standard. As individual projects are proposed under Land Use Alternative B, project
applicants would be required to perform site-level acoustic analysis to demonstrate compliance.
Existing Policy 2-6 (Neighborhood Protection; proposed to be renumbered and renamed Policy 2-8:
Neighborhood Compatibility), directs the City to “Protect residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic,
light and visually intrusive effects from more intense developments. with adequate buffering setbacks,
landscaping, walls, activity limitations, site design and other appropriate measures.” Policy 6-66 contains
provisions that require or encourage construction and other techniques to reduce sound transmission to
interior living spaces, consistent with the California Building Code. Proposed Policy 6-63, Exterior
Sound Transmission Control for New Single-family Homes, would direct the City to incorporate State
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building code controls on interior sound transmission in the Municipal Code. Additionally Chapter
10.48, Noise Ordinance, and Title 19, Zoning Ordinance, of the Cupertino Municipal Code contain
multiple provisions to limit the generation and reception of excessive noise. Such provisions include, but
are not limited to restrictions on construction activity, strict limitations on noise generation at property
lines, and performance standards for the permitting of commercial and industrial uses.
Under Land Use Alternative B, in areas where noise levels exceed those that are deemed normally
acceptable for a particular land use, development projects would continue to be required to
demonstrate—through acoustical studies—that interior noise environments would comply with the 45
dBA Ldn State standard.
Together, these policies and regulations would serve to ensure that land use and development decisions
consider and seek to prevent potential noise impacts. Through implementation of these existing or new
policies and requirements as part of Land Use Alternative B, the City would ensure compliance with
local and State standards for interior noise, and the impact would be less than significant.
Development of any land use in an area that is characterized by an exterior Ldn which
indicates that the establishment of that land use in the area would be “clearly
unacceptable,” pursuant to the Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines continued
under Land Use Alternative B.
Through adherence to the Land Use Noise Compatibility Guidelines, the City of Cupertino would
prohibit the development of particular land uses in areas where the ambient noise level would indicate
those land uses would be clearly unacceptable. General Plan Policy 6-49, Land Use Decision Evaluation,
would continue to ensure that City land use decisions adhere to the established compatibility guidelines.
Through continued implementation of these requirements as part of Land Use Alternative B, the City
would ensure compliance with local and State standards for land use compatibility, and the impact
would be less than significant.
Development of a new land use that would result in adjacent properties experiencing
short- or long-term ambient noise levels that exceed those regarded as compatible, or
which exceed levels permitted under the Chapter 10.48 of the Cupertino Municipal
Code.
Under Land Use Alternative B, existing policies of the current General Plan and provisions of the
Cupertino Municipal Code would continue to ensure that new land uses do not contribute to excessive
noise at existing sensitive receptors. Under Land Use Alternative B, the following policies would remain
applicable to future development: Policies 6-57, Commercial Delivery Areas, and 6-58, Delivery Hours,
would continue to ensure that commercial deliveries and delivery areas are regulated to prevent noise
impacts to adjacent sensitive land uses. Policy 6-59, Noise Control Techniques, would similarly serve to
prevent noise impacts from industrial processes and equipment near homes. Additionally, Policy 2-36,
Late-Evening Entertainment Activities, would discourage late night entertainment uses in areas where
these uses would abut low-density residential areas, and would only allow the permitting of such uses
near low-density residential when it could be demonstrated that adequate mitigations had been
undertaken.
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Additionally, the maintenance and continued enforcement of the Cupertino Municipal Code, including
the Noise Ordinance and Zoning Code, would work in tandem with and reinforce the current or
amended policies within the General Plan, and any impact arising from violation of applicable local
standards would therefore be less than significant.
Site-Specific Discussion
Project Components (Special Areas, Nodes/Gateways, Study Areas, and Housing Element Sites) are
geographically large and include a diversity of noise environments. The variation in noise levels (from both
land uses and roadways) within each of these areas would be greater than the variation among these areas
(e.g. the range between highest and lowest ambient noise levels in different portions of the Bubb Road
Special Area would be greater than the difference between the “average” noise levels in the Bubb Road
Special Area and any other Special area). For this reason, it is not feasible to discuss site-level noise impacts
at the Special Area or Node/Gateway level in the absence of information about specific proposed
development projects. Nevertheless, because many of the Study Areas and Housing Sites are located in areas
with similar noise environments, it is possible to make generalized conclusions about potential noise impacts
in these areas.
Study Areas
Study Areas may be loosely grouped into two non-exclusive categories: Study Areas along or near major
arterials and Study Areas along or near major freeways. As shown in Figure 3-11, Study Area Locations, in
Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, Study Areas 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center) and 2 (City
Center) fall into the first category, and would experience noise environments dominated by noise along
major arterials. Study Areas 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire), 3 (PG&E), 4 (Mirapath) and 5
(Cupertino Village) are in the second category where noise from nearby freeways is likely to dominate the
noise environment. Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District) would fall into both of these categories, as there
are portions of the Study Area that may be more dominated by freeway noise and portions that may be more
dominated by noise from major arterials. All Study Areas have the potential to receive some amount of noise
from both highways and major arterials. Because all of the Study Areas are at least partly located in close
proximity to a major arterial or highway, it is likely that there are portions of all Study Area where
development would require special noise-insulating features or construction techniques. Therefore, for
individual sites located within all Study Areas, additional project-level acoustical analysis would be necessary
to demonstrate conformance with applicable land use compatibility requirements and interior noise
standards; per Sections 19.44.050, Site Development Regulations, and 19.116.030, General Regulations, of
the Zoning Ordinance, as well as General Plan Policies 6-64, 6-65, and 6-66.
Housing Element Sites
Similar to the Study Areas, the potential Housing Element Sites may be loosely grouped into two non-
exclusive categories: sites along or near major arterials and sites along or near major freeways. As shown in
Figure 3-20, Potential Housing Sites, in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, the following
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Housing Element Sites fall into the former category, with major arterials being the likely predominant
source of noise:
Housing Element Site 1 (Shan Restaurant)
Housing Element Site 2 (Arya/Scandinavian Design)
Housing Element Site 3 (United Furniture/East of East Estates Drive)
Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza)
Housing Element Site 15 (Stevens Creek Office Center)
Housing Sites 5 (Glenbrook Apartments), 6 (The Villages Apartments), and 7 (Carl Berg Property), fall into
the latter category with freeways being the likely predominant source of noise.
Finally, the following Housing Element Sites are within both categories with portions of the Sites potentially
dominated by noise from either freeways or major arterials:
Housing Element Site 4 (Barry Swenson)
Housing Element Site 10 (The Hamptons)
Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except Rosebowl)
Housing Element Site 12 (Homestead Lanes and Adjacency)
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds & Granite Rock)
Housing Element Site 17 (Homestead Road – IntraHealth/Office/Tennis Courts)
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 19 (Cypress Building Association & Hall Property)
Although the various Housing Element Sites may be affected in different ways or to different degrees by
noise from major arterials and/or freeways, all Housing Element Sites overlap at least partially with the 70
dBA noise contour, even under existing conditions. Roadway noise models generally represent a
conservative estimate of ambient noise levels; nevertheless, there is no housing site that could avoid the need
for additional site-level measurements and analysis. At a minimum, project-level analysis would need to
examine portions of housing sites nearest to major roadways to measure current, 24-hour ambient noise
levels and determine appropriate site design and/or construction techniques for noise attenuation.
Despite this need for additional site-level analysis, development on the Housing Element Sites may avoid
significant impacts by conforming with requirements for acoustic analysis under the General Plan, including
the Land Use Compatibility Guidelines for Community Noise Environments, as well as by achieving
subsequent compliance with interior and exterior noise standards through application of any necessary
special construction or noise insulation techniques. Impacts would be less than significant.
General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites
As described in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, the proposed land use designation changes
within the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites are intended to ensure consistency
between existing land uses and the General Plan land use designations and/or the zoning ordinance. The
proposed Amendments do not result in increased development potential in these areas. As is currently the
case, future developments would be required to undergo CEQA review in these areas. The General Plan and
Zoning Ordinance Conformance Sites would not be subject to new development potential and would
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therefore neither create new sources of excessive noise, nor result in the development of sensitive land uses
that could be exposed to excessive noise. Thus, there would be no impact with regards to noise at these
locations.
Summary
Through adherence to the requirements, policies, and strategies adopted or continued under the current or
amended General Plan and Cupertino Municipal Code, the City of Cupertino would prevent the
development of land uses in areas with inappropriately high ambient noise levels; would ensure that any
development of noise-sensitive land uses include the study and adequate mitigation of noise impacts; and
would prevent activities or new uses that generate excessive levels of noise at sensitive receptors. Altogether,
this would ensure adherence to relevant noise exposure and generation standards, and would prevent noise-
sensitive land uses from being exposed to noise exceeding the prescribed standards. Therefore the impact
under this criterion would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
CCR, Title 24, Building Standards
Title 21, Subchapter 6, of the CCR
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19: Zoning Ordinance
Chapter 2.90: Design Review Committee
Title 5: Business Licenses and Regulations
Title 10: Public Peace, Safety and Morals
Title 11: Vehicles and Traffic
Title 14: Streets, Sidewalks and Landscaping
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
NOISE-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would expose persons to or
generate excessive ground-borne vibration or ground-borne noise levels.
CEQA does not specify quantitative thresholds for what is considered “excessive” vibration or groundborne
noise, nor does the City of Cupertino establish such thresholds. For Light Industrial and Industrial Park
zones, the City of Cupertino Municipal Code does specify that “nonaudible” vibrations must not be
perceptible without instrumentation, but the Code does not set a specific numeric threshold. Since
perception of vibrations varies between individuals, it is necessary to establish a quantitative threshold that
reflects levels of vibration typically capable of causing perception, annoyance, or damage. Therefore, based
on criteria from the FTA, which are regarded as standard practice, a significant impact would occur if:
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Implementation of the Project would result in ongoing exceedance of the criteria for annoyance
presented in Table 4.10-3, Human Reaction to Typical Vibration Levels, in Chapter 4.10, Noise, of this
Draft EIR.
Implementation of the Plan would result in vibration exceeding the criteria presented in Table 4.10-3
that could cause buildings architectural damage.
The following discusses potential vibration impacts generated by short-term construction and long-term
operations that may occur under implementation of Land Use Alternative B.
Short-Term Construction-Related Vibration Impacts
The effect on buildings in the vicinity of a construction site varies depending on soil type, ground strata, and
receptor-building construction. The results from vibration can range from no perceptible effects at the
lowest vibration levels, to low rumbling sounds and perceptible vibrations at moderate levels, to slight
structural damage at the highest levels. Vibration from construction activities rarely reaches the levels that
can damage structures, but groundborne vibration and groundborne noise can reach perceptible and audible
levels in buildings that are close to the construction site. Table 5.3-6 lists vibration levels for construction
equipment.
TABLE 5.3‐6 GROUNDBORNE VIBRATION LEVELS FOR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT
Equipment
Approximate Velocity
Level at 25 Feet
(VdB)
Approximate RMSa
Velocity at 25 Feet
(inch/sec)
Pile Driver (Impact) Upper Range 112 1.518
Pile Driver (Impact) Lower Range 104 0.644
Pile Driver (Sonic) Upper Range 105 0.734
Pile Driver (Sonic) Lower Range 93 0.170
Large Bulldozer 87 0.089
Caisson Drilling 87 0.089
Jackhammer 79 0.035
Small Bulldozer 58 0.003
Loaded Trucks 86 0.076
FTA Criteria – Human Annoyance (Daytime) 78 to 90b —
FTA Criteria – Structural Damage — 0.2 to 0.5c
a. RMS velocity calculated from vibration level (VdB) using the reference of 1 micro‐inch/second.
b. Depending on affected land use. For residential 78 VdB, for offices 84 VdB, workshops 90 VdB.
c. Depending on affected building structure, for timber and masonry buildings 0.2 in/sec, for reinforced‐concrete, steel, or timber 0.5 in/sec.
Source: Federal Transit Administration, Transit Noise, and Vibration Impact Assessment, 2006.
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As shown in Table 5.3-6, vibration generated by construction equipment has the potential to be substantial.
Significant vibration impacts may occur from construction activities associated with new development under
Land Use Alternative B. Implementation of Land Use Alternative B anticipates an increase in development
intensity in certain areas, but specific building locations, site plans, and construction details have not been
developed at this time.
Construction would be localized and would occur intermittently for varying periods of time. Because
specific, project-level information is not available at this time, it is not possible to quantify the construction
vibration impacts at specific sensitive receptors. Grading and demolition activity typically generate the
highest vibration levels during construction. Except for pile driving, maximum vibration levels measured at
a distance of 25 feet from an individual piece of typical construction equipment do not exceed the
thresholds for human annoyance for industrial uses, nor the thresholds for architectural damage.
Methods to reduce vibration during construction would include the use of smaller equipment, use of well-
maintained equipment, use of static rollers instead of vibratory rollers, and drilling of piles as opposed to
pile driving. Methods to reduce human impacts of vibration from construction include limitations on
construction hours and/or guidelines for the positioning of vibration-generating construction equipment.
Overall, vibration impacts related to construction would be short-term, temporary, and generally restricted
to the areas in the immediate vicinity of active construction equipment. Construction would be localized
and would occur intermittently for varying periods of time. Because specific, project-level information is
not available at this time, it is not possible to quantify the construction vibration impacts at specific sensitive
receptors.
These policies would thereby serve to ensure that construction activities do not result in sustained levels of
vibration that could result in architectural damage or ongoing annoyance. Therefore, implementation of
Land Use Alternative B would not result in levels of construction-related groundborne noise or vibration
that would exceed the thresholds for annoyance or architectural damage, and the impact would therefore be
less than significant.
Long-Term Vibration Impacts
Development under Land Use Alternative B could result in long-term, operations-related vibration impacts
to sensitive receptors if sensitive land uses such as residential, educational facilities, hospitals, or places of
worship were to be located in close proximity to industrial land uses that could have equipment with the
potential to generate significant vibration levels. There are limited areas of Cupertino where residential or
other sensitive land uses would interface to a certain degree with light industrial operations under the land
use designations implemented as part of Land Use Alternative B. Some prominent examples of such areas
include the Monta Vista Village Neighborhood, Bubb Road, and North De Anza Special Areas.
Despite the potential for vibration impacts from the juxtaposition of sensitive land uses and land uses with
the potential to generate vibration, appropriate setbacks, buffers, use restrictions, and/or other measures
can largely eliminate these impacts. As discussed above, vibration impacts are highly dependent on a variety
of localized factors, including geology, soil conditions, and building construction techniques; however, in
most cases vibration attenuates relatively rapidly with distance, making setbacks and buffering particularly
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effective approaches to avoid vibration impacts. Moreover, high levels of vibration are usually associated with
heavy industrial uses. The light industrial uses of the sort that would continue to be permitted in Cupertino
under Land Use Alternative B are very rarely associated with vibration that is sufficiently intense or
sustained so as to cause human discomfort or architectural/structural damage.
Although there are no State or federal regulations to limit perception of vibration by sensitive receptors,
Land Use Alternative B would continue or introduce an array of policies that would employ the previously
mentioned strategies to prevent vibration impacts. Existing Policy 2-6 (Neighborhood Protection; proposed
to be renumbered and renamed Policy 2-8: Neighborhood Compatibility) directs the City to “Protect
residential neighborhoods from noise, traffic, light and visually intrusive effects from more intense
developments. with adequate buffering setbacks, landscaping, walls, activity limitations, site design and
other appropriate measures.” Policy 6-61, Construction and Maintenance Activities, would require
construction contractors to use the best available technology to minimize excessive vibration from
construction equipment such as pile drivers, jack hammers, and vibratory rollers. Together, these policies
would serve to ensure that land use and development decisions consider and seek to prevent potential
vibration impacts.
Additional current or amended General Plan policies, as well as Municipal Code provisions, would also
serve to reduce and prevent long-term, operations-related vibration impacts. The current or amended noise
portion of the Health and Safety section of the General Plan offers general direction for the City to consider
noise and vibration impacts during development decisions, and provides specific policies in respect to these
considerations. would require Section 10.48.062, Nighttime deliveries and pickups, of the Municipal code,
serves to regulate acceptable freight pickup and delivery times for commercial and industrial land uses.
Although aimed at noise compatibility, these restrictions would also serve to reduce the intensity, frequency,
and duration of potential vibration from such activities, thereby reducing or preventing perception of
vibration at nearby receptors. Additionally, Chapter 19, Zoning, of the Municipal Code contains general
restrictions on commercial and industrial uses. In the case of industrial uses, it is prohibited to generate
vibration that is perceptible without instruments beyond the boundary of the industrial zone. In the case of
commercial uses, permitting of the use is contingent upon that use not emitting excessive vibration. By
ensuring general land use compatibility and by requiring, where necessary, approaches to reduce the
generation or transmission of vibration, these policies and ordinances would serve to ensure sufficient
attenuation of vibration to preclude impacts at sensitive receptors.
Together, these policies and actions would ensure that buildout of land uses under Land Use Alternative B
would not result in perception of excessive noise and vibration by sensitive receptors in new developments.
These policies and actions would also serve to ensure that new uses developed under Land Use Alternative B
would not result in the perception of excessive vibration by individuals living or working in areas of existing
sensitive land uses. Through consideration of land use compatibility, project-level review, and requirements
for mitigation of noise and vibration, the current or amended policies of the General Plan would prevent or
reduce exposure to long-term, operations-related vibration. Therefore, implementation of Land Use
Alternative B would not result in levels of long-term operation-related groundborne noise or vibration that
would exceed the thresholds for annoyance or architectural damage, and the impact would therefore be less
than significant.
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Applicable Regulations
CCR, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19: Zoning Ordinance
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
NOISE-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would result in a substantial
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the Study Area vicinity above
levels existing without the project.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would have a significant impact if it results in a substantial
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without Land Use
Alternative B. The Municipal Code identifies volume levels and durations that constitute unacceptable noise
increases during 2-hour periods; however, the City of Cupertino has not adopted a specific, quantitative
threshold for what constitutes a significant permanent increase in ambient noise levels. The smallest increase
in loudness perceptible by the human ear is 3 dBA and increases of 5 dBA or greater are easily noticed.34
However, the implementation of Land Use Alternative B and changes in the ambient noise environment will
occur over a period of more than 20 years. Therefore, in the absence of quantitative ambient noise level
increase thresholds adopted by the City, a substantial increase in ambient noise levels would be defined as
either: a 5 dBA increase, if after the increase the ambient noise level remains in the range of what would be
“normally acceptable” at the land use where the noise is being received; or a 3 dBA increase, if after the
increase the ambient noise level exceeds the range of what would be “normally acceptable” at the land use
where the noise is being received.
Long-Term Operational Noise
A portion of the substantial permanent increases to ambient noise levels that could result from
implementation of Land Use Alternative B would be attributable to ongoing operations on land uses
developed under the plan. Residential, open space, and most passive recreational land uses (i.e. trails, rests
areas, picnic areas) are generally not associated with substantial permanent increases in ambient noise. In the
case of these land uses, very specific sources of noise, such as lawn equipment or social gatherings, would be
the most likely source of excessive noise; addressing impacts from these noise sources would be handled on
a complaint basis by Cupertino’s noise ordinance. Noise sources associated with residential, open space, and
passive recreational land uses are generally not sufficiently frequent or sustained so as to result in permanent
substantial increases to ambient noise levels. Instead, substantial permanent increases in ambient noise levels
would be most likely to result from development of commercial, industrial, mixed-use, and certain
institutional or active recreational land uses (i.e. ball fields, skate-parks, dog parks).
34 Bies, David and Hansen, Colin, 2009, Engineering Noise Control: Theory and Practice, Fourth Edition, New York: Spon Press.
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The noise portion of the Health and Safety Section of the General Plan contains multiple policies that would
serve to prevent or mitigate substantial permanent increase to ambient noise levels from long-term
operations. All of the current or amended General Plan policies discussed under Impact NOISE-1 and
Impact NOISE-2 would likewise serve to prevent substantial permanent increases to ambient noise levels.
Key provisions of these previously discussed policies include, among others: limits on hours of operation,
transitional land uses and/or open space buffers, soundwalls, berms, and project level review to ensure
compliance with indoor/outdoor noise standards for sensitive uses. Together, these policies would serve to
ensure that the development of new land uses under Land Use Alternative B would not result in substantial
permanent increases in the ambient noise level in the project vicinity, and the impact in this regard would be
less than significant.
Transportation-Related Noise
As a result of implementation of Land Use Alternative B and ongoing regional growth, it is anticipated that
there would be substantial permanent increases to the ambient noise levels throughout Cupertino, and that
these increases would primarily result from increases to transportation-related noise, especially that of
automobile traffic. Because Cupertino has only one railway with very limited freight service, does not host
any airports or heliports, and is not located within two miles of any airports or heliports, increases in
ambient noise levels from rail and air traffic are not anticipated. Nevertheless, increases to ambient noise
from car and rail traffic would result in substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels.
Development of land uses under implementation of Land Use Alternative B, as well as development in
adjacent communities, would result in an increase in traffic that would cause substantial permanent
increases in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity. Table 5.3-7 shows major roadway segments in
Cupertino with estimated increases in the ambient noise level at a distance of 100 feet from the roadway
centerline.
TABLE 5.3‐7 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
Homestead Rd
From City Boundary to SR 85 65.0 66.3 1.3
From SR 85 to N Stelling Rd 67.8 69.4 1.6
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 69.6 70.7 1.1
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 68.7 70.8 2.1
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 68.9 70.9 2.0
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 69.1 71.2 2.1
From N Tantau Ave to City Boundary 68.9 71 2.1
Pruneridge Ave
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 63.1 64.4 1.3
From N Tantau Ave to Lawrence Expwy 63.6 69.5 5.9
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TABLE 5.3‐7 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
I‐280
From City Boundary to Foothill Blvd 81.2 81.9 0.7
From Foothill Blvd to SR 85 82.2 82.8 0.6
From SR 85 to N Stelling Rd 81.8 82.1 0.3
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 81.8 82.1 0.3
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 81.8 82 0.2
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 81.8 82 0.2
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 81.9 82.2 0.3
From N Tantau Ave to I‐280 81.9 82.2 0.3
From I‐280 to Lawrence Expwy 80.2 82.2 2.0
Stevens Creek Blvd
From City Boundary to Foothill Blvd 60.0 61.7 1.7
From Foothill Blvd to Bubb Rd 67.3 68.5 1.2
From Bubb Rd to SR 85 70.1 71.4 1.3
From SR 85 N Stelling Rd 70.4 71 0.6
From N Stelling Rd to N De Anza Blvd 69.2 71 1.8
Stevens Creek Blvd
From N De Anza Blvd to N Blaney Ave 68.9 71.4 2.5
From N Blaney Ave to N Wolfe Rd 68.8 71.6 2.8
From N Wolfe Rd to N Tantau Ave 70.6 72 1.4
From S Tantau Ave to I‐280 70.9 72 1.1
From I‐280 to Lawrence Expwy 70.6 72.6 2.0
McClellan Rd
From Foothill Blvd/Stevens Canyon Rd to Bubb Rd 60.8 63.2 2.4
From Bubb Rd to SR 85 63.3 64.3 1.0
From SR 85 to S Stelling Rd 64.0 65 1.0
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 64.6 65 0.4
Bollinger Rd
From S De Anza Blvd to S Blaney Ave 67.6 69.8 2.2
From S Blaney Ave to Miller Ave 65.1 67.4 2.3
From Miller Ave to S Tantau Ave 64.4 68.2 3.8
From S Tantau Ave to Lawrence Expwy 68.9 71.1 2.2
Rainbow Dr
From Bubb Rd to S Stelling Rd 58.9 61.7 2.8
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 65.5 65.9 0.4
Prospect Rd From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 65.1 65.9 0.8
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TABLE 5.3‐7 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
Foothill Blvd
From City Boundary to I‐280 71.7 74.7 3.0
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 70.6 71 0.4
From McClellan Rd to Stevens Creek Blvd 65.2 65.9 0.7
Stevens Canyon Rd From City Boundary to McClellan Rd 61.8 63.5 1.7
Bubb Rd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 67.6 68.9 1.3
From Rainbow Dr to McClellan Rd 62.5 63 0.5
SR 85 From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 80.8 80.9 0.1
SR 85
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 80.8 80.7 ‐0.1
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 81.4 81.8 0.4
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From McClellan Rd to S Stelling Rd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From S Stelling Rd to S De Anza Blvd 80.7 80.6 ‐0.1
From S De Anza Blvd to Prospect Rd 80.5 80.5 0.0
Hollenbeck Ave
(N. Stelling Rd) From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 60.0 59.8 ‐0.2
N Stelling Rd
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 63.2 66.2 3.0
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 63.1 66.1 3.0
S Stelling Rd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 61.7 68.9 7.2
From McClellan Rd to SR 85 59.0 63.2 4.2
From SR 85 to Rainbow Dr 58.8 62.7 3.9
From Rainbow Dr to Prospect Rd 59.7 61.4 1.7
N De Anza Blvd
From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 73.1 73.5 0.4
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 74.5 74.6 0.1
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 72.9 73.8 0.9
S De Anza Blvd
From Stevens Creek Blvd to McClellan Rd 71.9 73.2 1.3
From McClellan Rd to Bollinger Rd 72.0 73.5 1.5
From Bollinger Rd to SR 85 71.7 72.6 0.9
From SR 85 to Rainbow Dr 72.2 73.7 1.5
From Rainbow Dr to Prospect Rd 72.5 72.7 0.2
N Blaney Ave
From Homestead Rd to I‐280 60.8 63.5 2.7
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 61.0 62.8 1.8
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-126 JUNE 18,2014
TABLE 5.3‐7 INCREASES TO AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS ALONG MAJOR ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Roadway Segment
Ambient Noise Level at 100 feet from
Roadway Centerline CNEL dBA
Existing
Conditions
2040
Conditions
Increase
(dBA)
S Blaney Ave
From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 55.7 56.8 1.1
From Bollinger Rd to Prospect Rd 59.1 60.3 1.2
N Wolfe Rd
From City Boundary to Homestead Rd 67.6 70.7 3.1
From Homestead Rd to Pruneridge Ave 69.7 71.4 1.7
From Pruneridge Ave to I‐280 70.2 72.1 1.9
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 68.3 71 2.7
Miller Ave
From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 65.5 69.2 3.7
From Bollinger Rd to Boundary 65.4 66.9 1.5
N Tantau Ave
From Homestead Rd to Pruneridge Ave 47.4 64.6 17.2
From Pruneridge Ave to I‐280 50.3 61.9 11.6
From I‐280 to Stevens Creek Blvd 61.2 64.4 3.2
S Tantau Ave From Stevens Creek Blvd to Bollinger Rd 58.7 58.5 ‐0.2
Lawrence Expwy
From Pruneridge Ave to Stevens Creek Blvd 75.4 77.1 1.7
From Stevens Creek Blvd to I‐280 74.9 77.2 2.3
From I‐280 to Bollinger Rd 75.5 77.5 2.0
Bold numbers indicate increases in CNEL which would constitute substantial permanent increase in ambient noise level.
Source: Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Inc., 2014; PlaceWorks, 2014.
As discussed above, increases greater than 5.0 dBA would automatically constitute a substantial permanent
increase to the ambient noise level, Therefore an increase would be readily noticeable. Increases greater than
3.0 dBA would be considered substantive and permanent if the resulting CNEL would exceed that which is
considered normally acceptable for the receiving land use. The ambient noise level increases shown in Table
5.3-7 and the future 2040 Noise Contours in Figure 5.3-1 demonstrate that there would be multiple major
road segments that would experience substantial permanent increases in ambient noise levels, including at
sensitive receiving land uses.
The General Plan contains numerous policies to address the reception of excessive roadway noise at existing
sensitive land uses, which would be continued under Land Use Alternative B. For instance, Policy 6-51,
Stricter State Noise Laws, would direct the City to continue enforcement of existing street laws regarding
vehicle noise, and to support enactment of stricter State standards. Policy 6-53, Traffic Calming Solutions to
Street Noise, directs the City to explore traffic calming approaches for residential streets. Policies 6-54
through 6-56 direct the City to use a combination of restrictions and street improvements to reduce noise
from trucks. Altogether, these policies would serve to reduce noise from vehicles at the source and to
otherwise shield sensitive uses from excessive noise.
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NOISECITY OF CUPERTINOGENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING PROJECT
Figure 5.3-12040 Noise Contours – Land Use Alternative B
Source: City of Cupertino, 2013; MIG, Inc, 2014; PlaceWorks, 2014; ESRI, 2010.
0 0.5 10.25
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60 dBA CNEL contour65 dBA CNEL contour70 dBA CNEL contour
City Boundary
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-128 JUNE 18,2014
Although these policies could in certain cases reduce or prevent significant increases in ambient noise at
sensitive land uses under implementation of Land Use Alternative B, the measures described in these
policies would not be universally feasible, and some of the most effective noise-attenuation measures,
including sound walls and berms, would be infeasible or inappropriate in a majority of locations where
sensitive land uses already exist. Factors which would render these mitigations infeasible include but are not
limited to cost, aesthetic considerations, and negative impacts to pedestrian and bicycle connectivity.
Therefore, even after the application of relevant, feasible regulations and General Plan policies, the impact
to ambient noise levels would remain significant.
Applicable Regulations
CCR, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19: Zoning Ordinance
Chapter 2.90: Design Review Committee
Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations
Title 10: Public Peace, Safety and Morals
Title 11 Vehicles and Traffic
Title 14: Streets, Sidewalks and Landscaping
Mitigation Measures
The following mitigation measures were considered, but as described below, were found to be infeasible.
Technological Advances for Noise-Generating Vehicles and Machinery
Most urban noise results from the use of machinery or vehicles, including manufacturing equipment, HVAC
units, automobiles, motorcycles, trains, and aircraft, among others. The implementation of improved
technologies for the prevention or muffling of noise from these sources could theoretically prevent
substantial increases to ambient noise levels; however, this approach would be infeasible as much of this
implementation is beyond the jurisdiction of the City.
Beyond currently-accepted State and industry standards and best practices, developing and/or requiring
novel technological improvements for noise-generating vehicles and machinery would not be affordable,
scientifically plausible, or within the City’s jurisdiction. Therefore, this potential mitigation measure is
regarded as infeasible.
Universal Use of Noise-Attenuating Features
The universal use of noise attenuating features, such as rubberized asphalt, soundwalls, berms, and
improved building sound-insulation, could prevent transmission of excessive noise to the outdoor and
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-129
indoor areas of sensitive land uses and/or could prevent projected increases in ambient noise levels;
however, this approach would be infeasible.
Rubberized asphalt reduces tire-pavement noise and, when new, achieves a reduction of approximately 4
dBA when compared to normal pavement surfaces.35 However, the noise reduction properties degrade over
time, and the noise reduction would not be sufficient to reduce noise impacts in many areas of Cupertino. In
many cases, aesthetic concerns, costs, physical constraints, or other issues would prevent the universal
implementation of adequate noise-attenuating features. In addition to their expense, soundwalls often block
views and are regarded as unsightly. Moreover, the construction of soundwalls can result in reduced
pedestrian and vehicle connectivity, which would contravene other goals of the General Plan and have
negative social, economic, and even environmental consequences. Although improved building construction
and insulation beyond that which is required by California Title 24 and the current General Plan could
further reduce indoor exposure to excessive noise, substantial outdoor increases to ambient noise levels
would remain. Therefore, this potential mitigation measure is regarded as infeasible.
For this noise impact, there is no feasible mitigation for preventing substantial increases in ambient noise
levels, since all conceivable mitigations would be economically impractical, scientifically unachievable,
outside the City’s jurisdiction, and/or inconsistent with City planning goals and objectives. Impacts would
remain significant and unavoidable because no feasible mitigation measures are available to mitigate noise
impacts to a less than significant level, resulting in a significant and unavoidable impact.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and Unavoidable.
NOISE-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would result in a substantial
temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the Study Area
vicinity above levels existing without the project.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would have a significant impact if it results in a substantial
temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without
this Alternative.
Noise from construction equipment and various construction-related activities is frequently a cause of
temporary or periodic increases in ambient noise levels. Table 5.3-8, below, shows typical noise levels
generated by commonly-used pieces of construction equipment. Although the current or amended policies
of the General Plan and the provisions of the noise ordinance would serve to prevent or reduce noise
generation from construction equipment, it is likely that in certain cases these and other available methods
to reduce noise would be inadequate to prevent a significant impact.
35 Sacramento County, Department of Environmental Review and Assessment, 1999, Report of the Status of Rubberized Asphalt Traffic
Noise Reduction in Sacramento County.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-130 JUNE 18,2014
TABLE 5.3‐8 CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT NOISE EMISSION LEVELS
Construction Equipment
Typical Noise Level
(dBA) at 50 Feet
Construction
Equipment
Typical Noise Level
(dBA) at 50 Feet
Air Compressor 81 Pile‐Driver (Impact) 101
Backhoe 80 Pile‐Driver (Sonic) 96
Ballast Equalizer 82 Pneumatic Tool 85
Ballast Tamper 83 Pump 76
Compactor 82 Rail Saw 90
Concrete Mixer 85 Rock Drill 98
Concrete Pump 71 Roller 74
Concrete Vibrator 76 Saw 76
Crane, Derrick 88 Scarifier 83
Crane, Mobile 83 Scraper 89
Dozer 85 Shovel 82
Generator 81 Spike Driver 77
Grader 85 Tie Cutter 84
Impact Wrench 85 Tie Handler 80
Jack Hammer 88 Tie Inserter 85
Loader 85 Truck 88
Paver 89
Source: Federal Transit Administration, Transit Noise, and Vibration Impact Assessment, 2006.
By restricting hours of construction and directing the City to review project noise impacts as part of the
planning and permitting processes, the current or amended policies of the General Plan would serve to
reduce temporary or periodic increases to ambient noise. The Noise Portion of the Health and Safety
Section of the General Plan directs the City to consider project-level noise impacts as part of the
environmental evaluation and approval process for individual development proposals. Specifically, Policies 6-
61 and 6-62 of the General Plan, respectively, direct the City to limit the hours for construction activities
(with limited exceptions for urgent or emergency maintenance work) and to regulate construction and
maintenance activities, such as through requirements for up-to-date construction equipment. Through
continued implementation of these current or new policies, Land Use Alternative B would serve to
minimize temporary or periodic impacts to ambient noise levels from construction activities.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-131
Section 10.48.053, Grading, Construction and Demolition, of the Cupertino Municipal Code, also serves to
regulate noise from construction and related activities in Cupertino. Subsection A places an 87 dBA limit on
noise levels from construction equipment at a distance of 25 feet, as well as an 80 dBA limit on noise levels
at nearby properties. Additionally, Subsections C and D limit construction activities to weekdays, non-
holidays, and daytime hours, with limited exceptions. The noise chapter thus limits construction activities to
7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays, and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends. However, the ordinance
allows exceptions under Sections 10.48.030 and 10.48.031, which allow construction outside of these
hours, under certain conditions. However, these are used in very special circumstances such as emergencies
or when are unavoidable as a result of necessary construction techniques. Subsection E places additional
restrictions on the use of helicopters for construction purposes, including noticing requirements.
Although it is possible that certain construction activities may in some cases, lead to substantial temporary
or periodic increases to ambient noise levels, the current and proposed policies and regulations included
under Land Use Alternative B and the Municipal Code would serve to reduce these impacts. With
appropriate noise reduction and shielding measures, t temporary or periodic increases to the ambient noise
level that could be substantially reduced. The policies of the General Plan and regulations of the Municipal
Code, would thereby reduce the impacts from temporary or periodic increases to ambient noise levels, and
the impact would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
CCR, Title 24, Building Standards
General Plan: Health and Safety Section, Land Use Section, Circulation Section, and Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Section
Cupertino Municipal Code:
Chapter 10.48: Community Noise Control
Title 19: Zoning Ordinance
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
NOISE-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant
cumulative impacts with respect to noise.
The analysis of Land Use Alternative B, discussed above, addresses cumulative impacts in regard to noise, as
well as groundborne noise and vibration. Although multiple simultaneous nearby noise sources may, in
combination, result in higher overall noise levels, this effect is captured and accounted for by the ambient
noise level metrics which form the basis of the Thresholds of Significance for noise analysis. Any
measurement of sound or ambient noise, whether for the purpose of evaluating land use compatibility,
establishing compliance with exterior and interior noise standards, or determining point-source violations
of a noise ordinance, necessarily will incorporate noise from all other nearby perceptible sources.
Additionally, although noise attenuation is influenced by a variety of topographical, meteorological, and
other factors, noise levels decrease relatively rapidly with distance, and vibration impacts decrease even
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-132 JUNE 18,2014
more rapidly. Therefore, site-level cumulative noise or vibration impacts across city boundaries occur only
infrequently. The City of Cupertino directly interfaces with other incorporated communities and similarly
urbanized areas, which makes cross-border cumulative noise and vibration impacts possible. Nevertheless,
given the General Plan policies and Municipal Code requirements discussed above, it is unlikely that
operations-related noise would, in combination with noise sources from adjacent cities, result in cumulative
noise impacts. Additionally, because any noise measurements taken in conjunction with General Plan
policies or Municipal Code requirements would necessarily account for noises received from outside the
boundaries of the City of Cupertino, the ongoing implementation of these policies and regulations under
Land Use Alternative B would serve to prevent site-based cumulative noise impacts.
Similarly, the noise contours and traffic-related noise levels developed for Land Use Alternative B include
and account for regional travel patterns as they affect traffic levels in Cupertino. Noise contours were based
upon both existing and projected future traffic volumes that incorporate cumulative regional effects and
trends. Existing noise contours were derived from traffic volumes based on counts of current traffic, and
these traffic counts inherently include cumulative traffic, as generated by regional trips. In regard to future
noise, projected noise contours were determined using projected 2040 traffic volumes; these data account
for growth both within Cupertino under Land Use Alternative B, as well as anticipated regional growth. The
future noise modeling which served as the foundation for the overall Project analysis was therefore based on
future, cumulative conditions.
Impacts NOISE-3 and NOISE-4 therefore encompass and address cumulative noise impacts from
implementation of Land Use Alternative B. As discussed under Impact NOISE-3, even after the application
of pertinent policies and action of the General Plan Amendments, as well as all feasible mitigation measures
considered but determined to be infeasible described above under Impact NOISE-3, these impacts would
remain significant and unavoidable.
5.3.7.11 POPULATION AND HOUSING
POP-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not induce substantial
unexpected population growth, or growth for which inadequate planning
has occurred, either directly or indirectly.
Land Use Alternative B would result in a significant impact related to population growth if it would lead to
substantial unplanned growth, either directly or indirectly. The Land Use Alternative B does not specifically
propose any new development or redevelopment, and therefore would not result in direct growth; however,
implementation of Land Use Alternative B would facilitate growth in the Project Study Area through 2040,
and as such would have indirect effects related to growth. Potential impacts stemming from the indirect
inducement of unplanned population growth are discussed below in relation to both local and regional
planning efforts.
Local Planning
The developable area of Cupertino is already largely built out and the Project Study Area is well served by
utility and transportation infrastructure. Future housing development and redevelopment under Land Use
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-133
Alternative B would be infill development and would be concentrated on the sites identified in Section
3.7.4, Housing Element Sites, of Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR. While Land Use
Alternative B would require infrastructure improvements to correct existing deficiencies, these would be
made to accommodate the proposed new development and would not accommodate additional growth
beyond that need.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would serve to accommodate future
growth through 2040. Within the Land Use and Community Design Element, Policy 2-1, Focus
Development in Mixed-Use Special Areas, would require the City to, in the mixed-use Special Areas where
office, commercial and residential uses are allowed, focus higher intensity development and increased
building heights where appropriate in designated corridors, gateways and nodes. Policy 2-17, Multi-Family
Residential Design, would require the City to maintain a superior living environment for multi-family
dwellings. Strategy 1, Relationship to Street, directs the City to relate building entrances to the street,
utilizing porches or stoops. Strategy 2, Provision of Outdoor Areas, would require the City to provide
outdoor areas, both passive and active, and generous landscaping to enhance the surroundings for multi-
family residents. Allow public access to the common outdoor areas whenever possible. Policy 2-22,
Jobs/Housing Balance, would require the City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units.
Strategy 1, Housing and Mixed-Use, would require the City to strive to achieve a balanced jobs/housing
ratio based on the policies and strategies contained in the Housing Element. Strategy 2, Housing Impact on
Local Schools, recognizes that since the quality of Cupertino schools (elementary and high school) is a
primary asset of the City, care shall be taken to ensure any new housing will not adversely impact these
systems.
Within the proposed Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Services Element, Policy 7-4, New Development
Public Infrastructure Requirements, would require the City to require new development to provide
adequate public facilities or pay its fair share of the cost for public facilities needed to provide services to
accommodate growth without adversely impacting current service levels. Strategy 1, Design Capacity,
would require the City to ensure that public facilities and infrastructure are designed and constructed to
meet ultimate capacity needs to avoid the need for future upsizing. For facilities subject to incremental
upsizing, initial design shall include adequate land area and any other elements not easily expanded in the
future. Infrastructure and facility planning should discourage over-sizing of infrastructure which could
contribute to growth beyond what was anticipated in the General Plan. Strategy 2, Utility Undergrounding,
would require the City to require undergrounding of all new publicly owned utility lines. Encourage
undergrounding of all privately owned utility lines in new developments. Work with electricity and
telecommunications providers to underground existing overhead lines. Policy 5-2, Regional Growth and
Transportation Coordination, would require the City to “coordinate with regional and local agencies to
prepare updates to regional growth plans and strategies.” Strategy 1 under this policy would direct the City
to maintain local plans and strategies that are consistent with regional transportation and housing plans.
Policy 7-3, Sewer Tributary Lines, would require the City to recognize that new high discharge users in the
Vallco, Stevens Creek Boulevard and Blaney Avenue areas will require private developers to pay for the
upgrading of tributary lines. Strategy 1, Cost Estimates, would require the City to develop preliminary cost
estimates for the upgrading of the sewer tributary lines to discuss with prospective developers.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-134 JUNE 18,2014
Within the Housing Element, Policy 1, Provision of Adequate Capacity for New Construction Need, would
require the City to designate sufficient land at appropriate densities to accommodate Cupertino’s Regional
Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) of 1,064 units for the 2014-2022 RHNA planning period. Policy 2,
Housing Densities, would require the City to provide a full range of densities for ownership and rental
housing. Policy 3, Mixed Use Development, would require the City to encourage mixed-use development
near transportation facilities and employment centers. Policy 4, Housing Mitigation, would require the City
to ensure that all new developments—including market-rate residential developments—help mitigate
project-related impact on affordable housing needs. Policy 5, Range of Housing Types, would require the
City to encourage the development of diverse housing stock that provides a range of housing types
(including smaller, moderate cost housing) and affordability levels. Emphasize the provision of housing for
lower- and moderate-income households and also households with wage earners who provide essential
public services (e.g. school district employees, municipal and public safety employees, etc.). Policy 6,
Development of Affordable Housing and Housing for Persons with Special Needs, would require the City to
maintain and/or adopt appropriate land use regulations and other development tools to encourage the
development of affordable housing. Make every reasonable effort to disperse units throughout the
community but not at the expense of undermining the fundamental goal of providing affordable units. Policy
7, Housing Rehabilitation, would require the City to pursue and/or provide funding for the
acquisition/rehabilitation of housing that is affordable to very low-, low-, and moderate-income households.
Actively support and assist non-profit and for-profit developers in producing affordable units. Policy 8,
Maintenance and Repair, would require the City to assist lower-income homeowners and rental property
owners in maintaining and repairing their housing units. Policy 9, Conservation of Housing Stock, would
require the City to preserve the existing inventory of affordable housing units that are at risk of converting
to market-rate housing. Policy 10, Energy and Water Conservation, would require the City to encourage
energy and water conservation in all existing and new residential development. Policy 11, Lower Income
and Special Needs Households, would require the City to support organizations that provide services to
lower income households and special need households in the City, such as the homeless, elderly, disabled and
single parent households. Policy 12, Housing Discrimination, would require the City to work to eliminate
on a citywide basis all unlawful discrimination in housing with respect to age, race, sex, sexual orientation,
marital or familial status, ethnic background, medical condition, or other arbitrary factors, so that all
persons can obtain decent housing.
The City currently has the capacity to accommodate 1,895 housing units. Implementation of these General
Plan policies would ensure that local planning is adequate to accommodate future growth in Cupertino.
Regional Planning
As described above, ABAG and MTC have responsibility for regional planning initiatives in the nine-county
Bay Area, which includes Cupertino. ABAG and MTC have developed regional growth forecasts for the Bay
Area as a whole and for constituent jurisdictions. Table 5.3-9 below shows population, housing, and job
growth projections for Cupertino that are included in the regional forecasts. Land Use Alternative B would
be considered to induce substantial growth if the estimated buildout resulting from future development that
is permitted under the Land Use Alternative B would exceed these regional growth projections for
Cupertino. Land Use Alternative B’s 2040 buildout estimates are shown in Table 5.3-1.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-135
TABLE 5.3‐9 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B ESTIMATED POPULATION, HOUSEHOLD, AND EMPLOYMENT
Land Use
Alternative B 2013 2040 Growth Rate
Percent
Population 9,749 58,302 68,051 17%
Households 3,361 21,399 24,715 15%
Jobs 11,705c 27,387 39,092 43%
a. Percent are rounded to the nearest whole number.
b. Population is calculated by 3,316 units times 2.94 persons per household, which is the ABAG 2040 estimated generation rate.
c. Jobs are calculated applying the City’s generation rates as follows; 2,540,231 square feet of office allocation divided by 300 square
feet equals 8,467 jobs; 1,343,670 square feet of commercial allocation divided by 450 square feet equals 2,986 jobs; and 839 hotel
rooms at .3 jobs per room equals 252 jobs for a total of 11,705 jobs.
Source: Association of Bay Area Governments, Plan Bay Area, Projections 2013, Subregional Study Area Table, Santa Clara County and
the City of Cupertino, 2014.
As shown in Table 5.3-9, implementation of Land Use Alternative B would result in a total of 3,361 new
households in the city for a total of 24,715 households for the buildout horizon year 2040. Assuming the
new dwelling units permitted under Land Use Alternative B would have the average 2.94 persons per
household size as applied in ABAG Projections 2013, population in the city could increase by 9,749
residents for a total of 68,051 residents by 2040. By comparison, ABAG anticipates 3,861 new households
and 12,961 new residents in Cupertino, for a total of 24,180 households and 71,700 residents by 2040.36
While Land Use Alternative B would result in 3,649 fewer residents and 535 more units, the rate of growth
under the Land Use Alternative B and estimated by ABAG would be less for population growth (i.e. 17
percent compared to 22 percent) and household growth (15 compared to 19 percent). Consequently, the
additional housing units resulting from implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not substantially
exceed regional projections.
With respect to jobs, ABAG projects an increase of 7,040 jobs for a total of 33,260 jobs in 2040. As shown
in Table 5.3-9, when applying the City’s job generation rates for office, commercial, and hotel development,
buildout of the Land Use Alternative B could result in as many as 11,705 additional jobs for a total of
39,029 jobs in 2040, which would exceed the regional job projections by 5,769 jobs, which represents a 16
percent rate increase (43 percent compared to 27 percent).37
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would be consistent with goals and
objectives identified in the Plan Bay Area, would ensure potential development under Land Use Alternative
B, would not induce substantial unexpected population growth, or growth for which inadequate planning
has occurred, either directly or indirectly. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-2,
Connections Between Special Areas, Employment Centers and the Community, would require the City to
provide strong connections between the mixed-use Special Areas, employment centers and the surrounding
community. Policy 2-15, Urban Building Forms, would require the City to concentrate urban building
forms in the mixed-use Special Areas. Policy 2-24, Homestead Special Area, would require the City to
36 Association of Bay Area Governments, Plan Bay Area, Projections 2013, Subregional Study Area Table, Santa Clara County.
37 Office (300 square feet per job); Commercial (450 square feet per job); Hotel (.3 jobs per room).
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-136 JUNE 18,2014
create an integrated, mixed-use commercial and housing village within the Homestead Special Area,
consisting of three integrated areas. Each area will be master planned, with special attention to the
interconnectivity of these areas. Additionally, this corridor will continue to be a predominantly mixed-use
area with residential uses and a series of commercial centers. Homestead Road provides new pedestrian
crossings at the major intersections. Policy 2-24.B, Stelling Gateway, would require the City to Maintain and
enhance the Stelling Gateway as a medium density, mixed-use commercial and housing district that will
provide community identity and activity along Homestead Road. Policy 2-25, North Vallco Park Special
Area, would require the City to retain the North Vallco Park Special Area as an employment area of
predominately office and light industrial activities, with neighborhood commercial uses and ancillary uses
including hotels and retail uses. Additionally, this policy would require the City to maintain the existing
residential uses. Policy 2-25.A, North Vallco Gateway, would require the City to maintain and enhance the
North Vallco Gateway with uses that support major office developments within the City including hotels and
commercial uses. Existing residential development would also be maintained. Policy 2-26, Heart of the City
Special Area, would require the City to create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek
Boulevard of mixed-use development; enhanced activity gateways and nodes; and safe and efficient
circulation and access for all modes of transportation. Policy 2-26.B, Oaks Gateway, would require the City
to create an active, mixed-use shopping and residential gateway at one of the primary entrances to
Cupertino. Policy 2-26.D, Crossroads Area, would require the City to create an active, pedestrian-oriented
shopping district along Stevens Creek Boulevard, between De Anza Boulevard and Stelling Road, where
commercial and roadway design encourage pedestrian activity. Policy 2-26.E, City Center Node, would
require the City to maintain and enhance City Center Node as a moderate-scale, medium density, mixed use
district that will provide community identity and activity and will support retail uses in the Crossroads Area.
Policy 2-26.G, South Vallco Park Gateway, would require the City to retain and enhance South Vallco Park
Gateway as a large-scale commercial area that is a regional commercial (including hotel), office and
entertainment center with supporting residential development. Policy 2-27, North De Anza Special Area,
would require the City to maintain and enhance the North De Anza Special Area as a regional employment
center with supporting commercial and residential land uses. Policy 2-28, South De Anza Special Area,
would require the City to maintain and enhance the South De Anza Special Area as a mixed-use corridor.
Growth under Land Use Alternative B would come incrementally over a period of approximately 26 years,
and would be guided by a policy framework in Land Use Alternative B that is generally consistent with many
of the principal goals and objectives established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area. As discussed
above, one of the key concepts of Plan Bay Area is the idea of focusing future growth into PDAs (transit-
oriented, infill development opportunity areas within existing communities), which are expected to host
the majority of future development. The PDAs in Cupertino are located along Stevens Creek Boulevard
between State Route 85 and the City of Santa Clara, and along De Anza Boulevard between Stevens Creek
Boulevard and the City of Sunnyvale. As shown in Figure 4.11-1 in Chapter 4.11, Population and Housing,
of this Draft EIR, the PDAs coincide with the Heart of the City, Homestead, South De Anza, and North De
Anza Major Mixed-Use Special Areas, Study Area 1 (Cupertino Inn and Goodyear Tire), Study Area 2 (City
Center), Study Area 6 (Vallco Shopping District), Study Area 7 (Stevens Creek Office Center), as well as
potential the following Housing Element Sites:
Housing Element Site 1 (Shan Restaurant)
Housing Element Site 2 (Arya/Scandinavian Design)
Housing Element Site 3 (United Furniture/East of East Estates Drive)
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Housing Element Site 4 (Barry Swenson)
Housing Element Site 5 (Glenbrook Apartments)
Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except Rosebowl)
Housing Element Site 13 (Loree Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza)
Housing Element Site 15 (Stevens Creek Office Center)
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center)
Housing Element Site 19 (Cypress Building Association & Hall Property)
Therefore, growth anticipated under this Alternative would not exceed regional growth projections for
Cupertino and this additional growth would be consistent with the regional planning objectives established
for the Bay Area. Further, this additional growth would come incrementally over a period of approximately
26 years and a policy framework is in place to ensure adequate planning occurs to accommodate it. As a
result, impacts to population growth associated with potential future development under this Alternative
would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
POP-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not displace substantial
numbers of existing housing units, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would include General Plan land use designation, Zoning
designation, and development standard amendments on 11 of the 19 Housing Element Sites as follows:
Housing Element Site 7 (Carl Berg Property): Height would increase from 45 feet to 60 feet. No
changes to density, General Plan land use or Zoning designations.
Housing Element Site 10 (The Hamptons): Height would increase from 60 feet to 75 feet. Density
would increase from 25 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) to 65 du/ac. The General Plan land use
designation would be changed from High Density (20-35 dwelling unit per gross acre [DU/Gr. Ac]) to
High Density (Greater than 35 DU/Gr. Ac) and the Zoning designation would be changed from Planned
Development with Residential (P(Res) - 70) to P(Res).
Housing Element Site 11 (Vallco Shopping District except Rosebowl): Height would increase from 60
feet to 110 feet in the area bounded by I-280 to the north, Vallco Parkway to the south, and Perimeter
Road to the east if future development includes a retail component and provides community benefits.
There will be no change to residential density. The General Plan land use designation would be changed
from Commercial/Residential (C/R) to Commercial/Office/Residential (C/O/R) and the Zoning
designation would be changed from Planned Development with Regional Shopping (P(Regional
Shopping) to Planned Development with Regional Shopping, Professional Office, and Residential
(P(Regional Shopping, OP, Res)) to allow for professional offices and residential uses.
Housing Element Site 12 (Homestead Lanes and Adjacency): No changes to height, residential density,
or General Plan land use designations. Height allowances would remain at 45 feet on the east side of
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Stelling Road, however, in addition, 60 feet would be allowed with retail development. The Zoning
designation would be changed from Planned Development with General Commercial, Recreation and
Entertainment (P(CG, Rec, Ent)) to Planned Development with General Commercial and Residential
(P(CG, Res)) to allow for residential uses.
Housing Element Site 14 (Marina Plaza): Height would increase from 45 feet to 60 feet with a retail
component. Density would increase from 25 du/ac to 35 du/ac. No changes to General Plan land use
or Zoning designations.
Housing Element Site 15 (Stevens Creek Office Center): Height would increase from 45 feet to 60 feet
with a retail component. Density would increase from 25 du/ac to 35 du/ac. Zoning Designation
would be changed to General Commercial, Professional Office and Residential (P(CG, OP, Res)). No
changes to General Plan designation.
Housing Element Site 16 (Summerwinds and Granite Rock): Density would increase from 15 du/ac to
25 du/ac. Zoning designation would change from Planned Development with General Commercial and
Residential (P(CG, Res 5-15)) to Planned Development with General Commercial and Residential
(P(CG, Res)) to allow for residential uses. No changes to height or General Plan land use designation.
Housing Element Site 17 (Homestead Road – IntraHealth/Office/Tennis Courts): Height would
increase from 30 feet to 45 feet or 60 feet with a retail component. Density would increase from 15
du/ac to 35 du/ac. Zoning designation would be changed from Planned Development with General
Commercial (P(CG)) to Planned Development with General Commercial and Residential (P(CG, Res))
to allow for residential uses. No changes to General Plan land use designation.
Housing Element Site 18 (The Oaks Shopping Center): Height would increase from 45 feet to 60 feet
with a retail component. Density would increase from 25 du/ac to 35 du/ac. Zoning designation would
be changed from zoned Planned Development with General Commercial and Professional Office
(P(CG, OP)) to Planned Development with General Commercial, Residential, and Professional Office
(P(CG, Res, OP)) to allow for future mixed-use development including residential uses.
In addition to the 820 existing dwelling units on Housing Site 10 (The Hamptons), Housing Elements Site 5
(Glenbrook Apartments) and Site 6 (The Villages Apartments) have 517 and 468 existing dwelling units,
respectively. However, Sites 5 and 6 are anticipated to be infill sites, therefore, no demolition of existing
residential units would occur at these locations. However, potential future development under Land Use
Alternative B at Housing Element Site 10 could result in the temporary loss of 820 residential units. If this
Site were to be redeveloped, the existing units may need to be demolished in order to redevelop the sites at
their proposed maximum capacity. Nevertheless, the resulting redevelopment at this site would provide a
net increase of 342 units. Furthermore, where applicable, Housing Element Program 17 addresses the
potential loss of rental housing and displacement of lower and moderate income households due to new
development. Under this Program, the City may consider adopting new or amending existing
policies/ordinances to mitigate the potential displacement impacts. Options to be considered may include,
but not limited to a tenant relocation assistance ordinance, or requirement to include additional below-
market-rate units to make up the affordable units lost. Accordingly, the proposed General Plan land use
designation, Zoning designation and development standard amendments on the Housing Element Sites listed
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above would not result in the displacement of housing necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would result in a net increase of housing units (3,361 units
compared to 1,895 units) under the Land Use Alternative B. Therefore, construction of replacement
housing elsewhere would not be necessary and the impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
POP-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not displace substantial
numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere.
As described under Impact POP-2 above, potential future development potential Housing Elements Site 5
(Glenbrook Apartments), Site 6 (The Villages Apartments), and Housing Site 10 (The Hamptons) could
involve the demolition and replacement of existing housing units, which could result in the temporary
displacement of some residents, but this would not result in displacement of substantial numbers of people
and housing necessitating more replacement housing than is already planned. For the remainder of the
Housing Element Sites 1 through 4, 7, 10 through 19, described in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this
Draft EIR, no displacement would occur because the increase in housing would be accomplished by
constructing infill units on portions of the Housing Element Sites that are not currently developed with
housing. For Housing Element Sites 10, redevelopment of the site at its proposed maximum capacity would
require demolishing existing units and would require the occupants to move while the new residential
project is under construction; however, there would be a net increase in the number of housing units in
Cupertino (3,361 units compared to 1,895 units). Additionally, based on an average household size of 2.94
persons per household, the proposed net increase of 342 housing units from redevelopment on Housing
Element Site 10 would accommodate approximately 1,006 new residents in the city.
Furthermore, where applicable, Housing Element Program 17 addresses the potential loss of rental housing
and displacement of lower and moderate income households due to new development. Under this Program,
the City may consider adopting new or amending existing policies/ordinances to mitigate the potential
displacement impacts. Options to be considered may include, but not limited to a tenant relocation
assistance ordinance, or requirement to include additional below-market-rate units to make up the
affordable units lost. Therefore, not only is Land Use Alternative B anticipated to result in an increase in
residential units (3,361 units compared to 1,895 units), but also, should some types of individual
development projects be permitted under the Land Use Alternative B that would potentially displace
people, provisions of the Housing Element Program 17 would serve to minimize impacts. Therefore, the
construction of replacement housing elsewhere would not be warranted and the impact would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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POP-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to population and housing.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative B within the Cupertino city boundary
and SOI, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara County and the
surrounding region, as forecast by ABAG. Impacts from cumulative growth are considered in the context of
their consistency with regional planning efforts. As described above, Land Use Alternative B would not
induce a substantial amount of growth or require the construction of replacement housing elsewhere.
Cumulative growth would be consistent with regional planning efforts. Thus, when considered along with
Land Use Alternative B, which, as described in the above sections, would not exceed regional growth
projections, cumulative growth would not displace substantial numbers of people or housing or exceed
planned levels of growth and cumulative impacts, would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.3.7.12 PUBLIC SERVICES AND RECREATION
Fire Protection Services
PS-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in the provision
of or need for new or physically altered fire protection facilities, the
construction or operation of which could cause significant environmental
impacts.
Future development permitted under this Alternative would result in 5,571 additional residents and up to
5206 new jobs, which would result in an in increase in the number of would require fire protection, and
emergency medical services. Subsequently, the expansion or construction of new or physically altered fire
protection facilities, which could result in significant environmental impacts, could be required. However,
development would occur incrementally throughout the 26-year buildout horizon, therefore, not resulting
in potential impacts to fire protection services in the immediate future or all at one time. Further, under this
Alternative, commercial space and residential development allocation would not be replenished; therefore,
this Alternative would not result in additional would require service beyond what has currently been
accounted for with respect to potential future commercial and residential development.
Additionally, compliance with Subsections 105.1.4 (Construction permit fees) and 105.1.5 (Operational
permit fees) under Section 16.40.065, Permits, of the Municipal Code, as described in Section 4.12.1.1,
Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, in this Draft EIR, would require
future development to undergo plan review and approval by the Santa Clara County Fire District (SCCFD)
to ensure that future projects comply with State, and local fire codes, as well as ensure adequate safety
features are incorporated into building design to minimize risk of fire.
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The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate fire protection
services are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Health and Safety Element, Policy 6-4, Wild
Fire Prevention Efforts, would require the City to coordinate wild fire prevention efforts with adjacent
jurisdictions. Policy 6-8, Early Project Review, would require the City to involve the Fire Department in the
early design stage of all projects requiring public review to assure Fire Department input and modifications
as needed. Policy 6-9, Commercial and Industrial Fire Protection Guidelines, would require the City to
coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new guidelines for fire protection for commercial and
industrial land uses. Policy 6-11, Multi-Story Buildings Fire Risks, would require the City to recognize that
multi-story buildings of any land use type increase risks of fire, and to ensure that adequate fire protection is
built into the design and require on-site fire suppression materials and equipment to ensure the safety of the
community. Policy 6-12, Smoke Detectors, would require the City to require smoke detectors in all new
residential units and in all residential units at the time of sale or rental, in conformance with State law, and
to continue to use the Cupertino Scene to publicize fire hazards correction methods. Strategy 1, Code
Amendment, would require the City to adopt an ordinance to incorporate the smoke detector requirement
in Chapter 16.04 of the Cupertino Municipal Code. Policy 6-13, Roadway Design, would require the City
to involve the Fire Department in the design and review of public roadways for review and comments, and
to attempt to ensure that roadways have frequent median breaks for timely access to properties. Policy 6-15,
Hillside Access Routes, would require the City to require new hillside development to have frequent grade
breaks in access routes to ensure a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-16, Hillside Road
Upgrades, would require the City to require new hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to
meet Fire Code and City standards. Policy 6-20, Growth Cooperation, would require the City to encourage
cooperation between water utility companies and the Fire Department in order to keep water systems in
pace with growth and firefighting service needs. Policy 6-21, Fire Fighting Upgrades Needs, would require
the City to encourage water providers to consider Fire Department firefighting needs when upgrading
public water systems.
Future development would also be required to comply with the City’s Fire Code per Chapter 16.40 (Fire
Code), including compliance with the permit processes, emergency access, hazardous material handling,
and fire protection systems, including automatic sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, and fire alarms.
Further, future development would be required to comply with the City-adopted 2010 California Fire Code
(CFC) and 2009 International Fire Code. Consequently, compliance with the State and local regulations, in
conjunction with compliance with the above listed General Plan policies, would ensure that potential
impacts under this Alternative remain less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to fire protection service.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would facilitate new development, including residential, mixed-
use, and commercial, within Cupertino, which could result in the provision of or need for new or physically
altered fire protection facilities, the construction or operation of which could cause a significant
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environmental impact, in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecasted by the ABAG. However, under this Alternative,
commercial space and residential development allocation would not be replenished.
Cumulative impacts are considered in the context of the growth from development under this Alternative
within the city combined with the estimated growth in the service area of the SCCFD, which includes the
cities of Campbell, Los Altos, Monte Sereno, Saratoga, and towns of Los Altos Hills and Los Gatos. A
significant cumulative environmental impact would result if this cumulative growth would exceed the ability
of SCCFD to adequately serve their service area, thereby requiring construction of new facilities or
modification of existing facilities.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B is unlikely to create a need for new or physically altered facilities
in order for the SCCFD to provide fire protection services to its service area because compliance with State
and local laws, as described in Section 4.12.1.1, Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.12, Public Services
and Recreation, of this Draft EIR, as well as the General Plan policies listed above in impact discussion PS-1,
would ensure that fire protection services are adequate as future development is proposed as a result of
implementation of Land Use Alternative B. Therefore, the cumulative impact on the provision of fire
services would likewise be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Police Protection Services
PS-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in the provision
of or need for new or physically altered police protection facilities, the
construction or operation of which could cause significant environmental
impacts.
Similar to Impact PS-1, future development permitted under this Alternative would result in 5,571
additional residents and up to 5206 new jobs, which would result in an in increase in the number of would
require police protection. Subsequently, the expansion or construction of new or physically altered fire
protection facilities, which could result in significant environmental impacts, could be required. However,
development would occur incrementally throughout the 26-year buildout horizon, therefore, not resulting
in potential impacts to fire protection services in the immediate future or all at one time. Further, under this
Alternative, commercial space and residential development allocation would not be replenished; therefore,
this Alternative would not result in additional would require service beyond what has currently been
accounted for with respect to potential future commercial and residential development.
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However, the West Valley Patrol Division has confir med that future development under the General Plan
would not result in the need for expansion or addition of facilities.38 Moreover, growth proposed under
Land Use Alternative B would occur incrementally over the 26-year horizon of the General Plan.
Additionally, if future expansion of the police station were necessary, the project would be subject to the
provisions of CEQA, which would require that all potentially significant impacts be mitigated to a less-than-
significant level, when feasible.
Further, the Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that while the standard service contract is based upon a set
number of hours for deputies and reserve deputies, buildout under the General Plan throughout the 26-year
horizon under Land Use Alternative B would not substantially result in an increase in the number of
contracted hours as a result of potential increase in would require police protection services.39 Hence, the
same would be true for future development under Alternative B.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate police
protection services are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Health and Safety Element,
Policy 6-22, Neighborhood Awareness Programs, would require the City to continue to support the
Neighborhood Watch Program and others similar programs intended to help neighborhoods prevent crime
through social interaction. Policy 6-24, Crime Prevention in Building Design, would require the City to
consider the relationship between building design and crime prevention in reviewing all developments.
Policy 6-25, Fiscal Impacts, would require the City to recognize fiscal impacts to the County Sheriff and
City of Cupertino when approving various land use mixes. Policy 6-26, Pre-hearing Review, would require
the City to continue to request County Sheriff review and comment on development applications for
security and public safety measures.
Based on confirmation by the Sheriff’s Office, along with compliance with the General Plan policies listed
above, a less-than-significant impact would occur with respect to the need for new or physically altered
police protection facilities.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to police protection service.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative B within the Cupertino city boundary
and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG).
Cumulative impacts are considered in the context of the growth from development under Land Use
Alternative B within the city, combined with the estimated growth in the service areas of the Santa Clara
38 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Captain Ken Binder, Division Commander, West Valley Patrol,
April 11, 2014.
39 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Captain Ken Binder, Division Commander, West Valley Patrol,
April 11, 2014.
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County Sheriff’s Department, including the cities of Los Altos Hills, Saratoga, and unincorporated areas of
Santa Clara County. A significant cumulative environmental impact would result if this cumulative growth
would exceed the ability of Sheriff’s Department to adequately serve the vicinity, thereby requiring
construction of new facilities or modification of existing facilities.
Since police protection services in Cupertino are provided through a MOU between the City of Cupertino
and the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, changes and growth anticipated under Land Use Alternative B
would not have any cumulative impact beyond Cupertino’s SOI. Moreover, the Sheriff’s Office has
confirmed that in conjunction with the growth anticipated under Land Use Alternative B and subsequently,
this Alternative, new or physically altered facilities would not be needed.40 Further, it is unlikely that
implementation of the Land Use Alternative B would significantly increase the degree or incidence of need
for mutual aid from neighboring agencies because anticipated growth under the General Plan would occur
incrementally throughout the 26-year buildout horizon. Additionally, compliance with the existing General
Plan policies listed under Impact PS-3 would require the City to recognize fiscal impacts to the County
Sheriff and City of Cupertino when approving various land use mixes and to continue to request County
Sheriff review and comment on development applications for security and public safety measures.
Therefore, implementation of Land Use Alternative B would have a less-than-significant cumulative effect
with respect to police protection services.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
School Services
PS-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in the provision
of or need for new or physically altered school facilities, the construction
or operation of which could cause significant environmental impacts.
This section reviews the need for existing school facilities to accommodate any increases in public school
enrollment due to Land Use Alternative B. However, the California State Legislature, under Senate Bill 50
(SB 50), has determined that payment of school impact fees shall be deemed to provide full and complete
school facilities mitigation. All new developments proposed pursuant to the adoption of Land Use
Alternative B will be required to pay the school impact fees adopted by each school district, and this
requirement is considered to fully mitigate the impacts of the Land Use Alternative B on school facilities.
Cupertino Union School District
The Land Use Alternative B would generate approximately 3,361 housing units in Cupertino; thus the
CUSD would experience additional students in elementary schools and middle school. With student
enrollment already exceeding CUSD’s capacity, the additional students would exacerbate the CUSD’s
capacity. In order to accommodate new students, the CUSD needs to either expand existing facilities or
40 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Captain Ken Binder, Division Commander, West Valley Patrol,
April 11, 2014.
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construct new schools. However, Cupertino does not have sufficient locations for new school facilities to
accommodate the increased enrollment expected. However, the CUSD would receive approximately $9.1
million in development impact fees from Land Use Alternative B, which would mitigate the impacts from
Land Use Alternative B per SB 50. The impact to the CUSD would be less than significant.
Fremont Unified High School District
With the estimated increase new housing units to Cupertino, the FUHSD would experience increase
students by 2040. Although current student enrollment almost equals to its capacity, the additional students
would increase the capacity deficit for the FUHSD. However, the FUHSD has been modernizing its facilities
with additional classroom and cafeterias to continuously address the capacity deficit issue, and additional
development impact fee of $6 million would ameliorate the capacity problem. The impact to the FUHSD
would be less than significant.
Santa Clara Unified School District
With new housing units with Land Use Alternative B, the expected growth in student enrollment for the
SCUSD would increase. Although increase enrollment would add stress to the school in the SCUSD,
development impact fees for Land Use Alternative B would mitigate the impact to the SCUSD facilities;
therefore, the impacts to the SCUSD would be less than significant.
Furthermore, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would preserve and
support Cupertino’s excellent public education system by partnering with local school districts and De Anza
College to improve school facilities and infrastructure. Policy 2-7, Neighborhood Street Planning, would
require the City to develop pedestrian-friendly street environments in each neighborhood that help create
neighborhood identity, improve safety, increase opportunities for social interaction and connections to
shopping, schools, recreation and other destinations. Supporting Strategy 2, Public Facilities, would require
the City to evaluate existing and planned public facilities, such as schools and parks, to improve pedestrian
access. Strategy 2, Public Facilities, would require the City to evaluate existing and planned public facilities,
such as schools and parks, to improve pedestrian access. Policy 2-22, Jobs/Housing Balance, would require
the City to strive for a more balanced ratio of jobs and housing units. Supporting Strategy 1, Housing and
Mixed-Use, would require the City to strive to achieve a balanced jobs/housing ratio based on the policies
and strategies contained in the Housing Element. Strategy 2, Housing Impact on Local Schools, recognizes
that the quality of Cupertino schools (elementary and high school) is a primary asset of the City and directs
the City to ensure that any new housing pays the statutorily mandated impact fees to mitigate any adverse
impact to these systems. Policy 2-61, Planning for Schools, would require the City to recognize the financial
impact of increased development on the school districts’ ability to provide staff and facilities. Work with the
districts to assure that the continued excellence of school services can be provided prior to granting
approval for new development. Policy 2-93, School Playing Fields, would require the City to preserve
school playing fields for school and community recreational uses. Strategy 1, School Expansion, would
require the City to encourage schools to meet their expansion needs by building upward instead of outward
into recreation fields. Strategy 2, School Parking Lots, would require the City to encourage schools to seek
alternate parking or transportation solutions, rather than building new parking lots that infringe on playing
fields.
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Therefore, with the mandatory payment of developer impact fees pursuant to SB 50 together with
implementation of the General Plan policies and strategies that support the schools within Cupertino,
impacts to the CUSD, FUHSD and SCUSD would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in
cumulative impacts with respect to schools.
Regional growth resulting from past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects would result in increased
demand for additional school facilities within all three school districts serving the City of Cupertino. Almost
all of the schools in Cupertino experiences capacity deficits, and additional student enrollment would
exacerbate the current capacity issue. Similar to development in Cupertino, the schools are expected to
receive development impact fees from other development outside of Cupertino, which would mitigate the
current and future capacity issues, which would help expand their facilities to accommodate future students.
Therefore, Land Use Alternative B would have a less-than-significant impact on school facilities.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Libraries
PS-7 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in the provision
of or need for new or physically altered library facilities, the construction
or operation of which could cause significant environmental impacts.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B could potentially add approximately 9,749 new residents to
Cupertino by 2040, which would increase the demand for library services and facilities in Cupertino.
Although Land Use Alternative B would result in an increase in employees throughout Cupertino as well,
only residents within Santa Clara County can apply for a library card; therefore, the following analysis
considers expected population increases, and not employment generation as a result of implementation of
Land Use Alternative B.41 Therefore, expected increases in employees in the city need not be further
considered.
While an overall increase in residents is expected, growth under Land Use Alternative B would occur
incrementally throughout the 26-year horizon; therefore, potential impacts resulting from increased
demand for library services would not occur in the immediate future. It was confirmed that the existing 75
employees, as well as existing library facilities, would be sufficient to accommodate increased demand for
41 Santa Clara County Library District, Santa Clara County Library District website, http://www.sccl.org/about/joining/eligibility,
accessed April 8, 2014.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-147
library services, and no expansions would be required.42 Additionally, the General Plan policies listed below
would ensure that the City maintains an adequate level of library services to serve the residents of the city.
Moreover, the Santa Clara County Library Strategic Plan (2008) also aims to ensure adequate library
facilities are provided to sufficiently meet the demands of the City through the identification of goals and
objectives, such as increasing the library’s technology and increasing access to the library’s physical space.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate library services
are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element Policy 2-58,
Library Service Level, would require the City to recognize that if the community desires a higher level of
library service, cooperation between the County of Santa Clara and City of Cupertino in expanding library
services and facilities is required. Policy 2-59, Library Planning, would require the City to integrate and
coordinate any public library facility planning into all applicable General Plan policies, such as
transportation, pedestrian and bike trails. Policy 2-60, Improving Library Service, would require the City to
encourage the library to continue to incorporate new technology to enhance service levels within the library
system. Additionally, under this policy the City is required to encourage the continued evolution of library
collections and services to meet the needs of Cupertino residents of all ages, its richly diverse population
and its local businesses.
The only facility deficiency identified by library staff is a lack of parking; however, communication with
library staff has indicated that there is the potential for an expansion of public meeting space and the parking
lot currently under consideration.43
In summary, the library has adequate capacity to accommodate the growth over the 26-year horizon of Land
Use Alternative B and the expansion of existing library facilities or the construction of new facilities would
not be required; therefore, impacts related to the provision of new or physically altered library facilities
would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-8 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to libraries.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative B within the Cupertino city boundary
and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG).
Cumulative impacts are considered in the context of the growth from development under Land Use
Alternative B within the city combined with the estimated growth in the service areas of the SCCLD, which
includes all unincorporated portions of Santa Clara County in addition to the incorporated portions of
42 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Derek Wolfgram, Deputy County Librarian for Community
Libraries, April 4, 2014.
43 Personal communications between Ricky Caperton (PlaceWorks) and Derek Wolfgram, Deputy County Librarian for Community
Libraries, April 4, 2014.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-148 JUNE 18,2014
Campbell, Cupertino, Gilroy, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Milpitas, Monte Sereno, Morgan Hill, and
Saratoga.44 A significant cumulative environmental impact would result if this cumulative growth would
exceed the ability of SCCLD to adequately serve the service area, thereby requiring construction of new
facilities or modification of existing facilities.
Under this Alternative, there would be an increase to population as a result of future development allowed
under Land Use Alternative B; however, the Santa Clara County Library Strategic Plan (2008), described in
more detail in Section 4.12.5.1, Environmental Setting, of Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, of
this Draft EIR, accounts for the entire SCCLD service area and provides a basis for analyzing the most
efficient allocation of funds both for the district as a whole as well as among the different libraries in the
SCCLD service area. This would not only allow for adequate funding to satisfy demand at the Cupertino
library, but also, it would ensure that surrounding libraries are adequate to fulfill demand which in turn
would reduce the demand at the Cupertino library by reducing deficiencies at surrounding facilities. As a
result, implementation of Land Use Alternative B would result in a less-than-significant cumulative
impact associated with libraries.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
Parks and Recreation
PS-9 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not increase the use of
existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities,
such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur, or
be accelerated.
The City of Cupertino has an adopted parkland dedication standard of three acres of parkland for every
1,000 residents. Under Land Use Alternative B, the City would retain this standard. As shown in Table 4.12-
7, in Chapter 4.12, Public Services and Recreation, there is a total of approximately 156 acres of parkland in
Cupertino, or approximately 2.7 acres per 1,000 residents, based on an existing population of 58,302.
Therefore, the City does not currently meet its adopted standard established under Policy 2-83, Park
Acreage, in the General Plan.
The adoption of Land Use Alternative B could bring as many as 9,749 new residents to the city by 2040;
therefore, increasing use of existing parkland, which could accelerate the physical deterioration of existing
facilities. In order to comply with the proposed City standard of parkland, buildout of Land Use Alternative
B would be required to provide 29 acres.45 Although the City does not currently meet its adopted standard
of providing three acres of parkland per 1,000 residents, future development under Land Use Alternative B
would be required to meet the proposed standard. Therefore, while the addition of 9,749 new residents
would require up to 29.2 acres of additional parkland, future development under Land Use Alternative B
44 Santa Clara Library District, Santa Clara Library District website, http://www.sccl.org/about/joining/eligibility, accessed April 8,
2014.
45 Acreage was calculated by multiplying the projected number of persons by the required acreage percentage. For example, 3 acres of
City park per 1,000 persons is equivalent to .003 and .003 x 9,749 = 29.2.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-149
would comply with Municipal Code regulations. Chapter 14.05, Park Maintenance Fee, would require
developers to pay impact fees to maintain existing parks and recreation facilities and Chapter 18.24,
Dedications and Reservations, would require residential developments to dedicate parklands or pay in-lieu
fees to accommodate and offset their fair share of impacts to parklands. Further, future development would
also be required to comply with applicable General Plan policies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate
neighborhood, regional park, or other recreational facilities are available for the residents of Cupertino.
Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-83, Park Acreage, would require the City to
require the provision of parkland equal to a minimum of three acres for each 1,000 residents. Policy 2-84,
Park Walking Distance, would require the City to ensure that each household is within a half-mile walk of a
neighborhood park, or community park with neighborhood facilities, and that the route is reasonably free of
physical barriers, including streets with heavy traffic. Additionally, under this policy wherever possible, the
City must provide pedestrian links between parks.
Overall, Land Use Alternative B would result in development allocation increases throughout the city that
would increase population, and subsequently the demand to parks and recreation facilities throughout the
city. However, because buildout would occur incrementally throughout the 26-year horizon, and future
development would be subject to comply with the Municipal Code Chapters 14.05 and 18.24, and the
General Plan policies listed above that would ensure that future development provide their fair-share of
parks to help meet the City’s target of three acres per 1,000 residents, impacts would be less than
significant.
PS-10 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not include or require the
construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an
adverse physical effect on the environment.
As discussed above in impact discussion PS-9, the City currently does not meet its adopted standard of
providing three acres of parkland per 1,000 residents, and because Land Use Alternative B at buildout would
add 9,749 residents to the City of Cupertino over the next 26 years, an increase in demand for existing
parklands and recreation facilities would occur. Additionally, Policy 2-83, Park Acreage, would retain
current park acreage provision requirements at three acres per 1,000 residents. This would increase the
need for park areas, and the provision of such park areas could have adverse physical effects on the
environment. Because future development would be required to comply General Plan Policies 2-74,
Heritage Trees, and 2-75, Public Arts, as described in impact discussion PS-9 above, as well as other
regulations described in Section 4.12.5.1, Environmental Setting, future development as a result of
implementation of Land Use Alternative B could require or result in the construction or expansion of
recreational facilities that could have an adverse physical effect on the environment. Similarly, Policies 2-78,
Future Use of Blackberry Farm, 2-78.A, Master Planning Efforts for Parks, and 2-79, Recreational
Opportunities for All Users Including Special Needs, would direct the City to conduct citywide planning for
parks and to improve park access for underserved populations. Together these policies would also contribute
to the potential creation of new parks that could have adverse physical effects. Additionally, Strategy 5,
Flexibility in Standards, under Policy 2-82, Open Space and Trail Linkages, could result in the creation of
new trails or open space areas in new developments under Land Use Alternative B, and the creation of such
facilities could likewise have adverse physical effects on the environment.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
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However, as future parks are proposed, they would be subject to project-level environmental review to
identify potential impacts and mitigation measure to ensure that potential impacts would be reduced to a
less-than-significant level with regards to the future construction or expansion of recreational facilities as a
result of implementation of Land Use Alternative B; therefore, potential impacts would be less than
significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
PS-11 Implementation of Land Use Alter native B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than
significant cumulative impacts with respect to parks and recreational
facilities.
This EIR takes into account growth projected by Land Use Alternative B within the Cupertino city boundary
and Sphere of Influence (SOI), in combination with impacts from projected growth in the rest of Santa Clara
County and the surrounding region, as forecast by the Association of Bay Area of Governments (ABAG). The
geographic scope for this discussion includes park and recreation facilities within the city boundary, as well
as Santa Clara County, and the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. As described above, the City
would require subdivision development to fund park improvements and dedicate land through compliance
with Municipal Code Chapter 14.05, Park Maintenance Fee, and Chapter 18.24, Dedications and
Reservations, which would help to ensure the provision of adequate parklands in compliance with the City
standard of providing three acres per 1,000 residents.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would allow for development to occur, which would
cumulatively increase the demand for park and recreational services in the city; however, compliance with
the City’s Municipal Code, along with the policies listed above in impact discussion PS-9, would ensure that
adequate parklands and recreational facilities are provided through in-lieu fees, maintenance fees, or
parkland dedication in order to meet the City standards, which would mitigate potential impacts that future
development would have on park and recreation services in the city.
Further, potential future impacts to Santa Clara Parks, as well as the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District, would be mitigated through the contribution of property taxes to ensure facilities at these locations
are adequately maintained and sufficient to accommodate growth associated with implementation of Land
Use Alternative B.
Overall, this Alternative would not contribute to any potential cumulative impacts to park and cumulative
impacts to park and recreational services would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-151
5.3.7.13 TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC
TRAF-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would conflict with an
applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness
for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all
modes of transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel
and relevant components of the circulation system, including but not
limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and
bicycle paths, and mass transit.
This impact discussion focuses on vehicular transportation. Impacts related to other modes of transportation
are discussed under Impact TRAF-5 below.
Intersection Levels of Service
This section describes the traffic conditions that would result with the addition of the trips generated by the
development included in Land Use Alternative B on the local roadway network, compared to traffic
conditions with the 2040 No Project scenario. The roadway network is assumed to be the same as under the
2040 No Project scenario.
The results of the level of service analysis under Land Use Alternative B scenario compared to the 2040 No
Project scenario are presented in Table 5.3-10. The results show that, of the 41 study intersections, 29
intersections would operate at an acceptable level of service under Land Use Alternative B, and twelve (12)
intersections would operate at an unacceptable level of service during the AM peak hour, the PM peak hour,
or both peak hours.
TABLE 5.3‐10 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B INTERSECTION LEVELS OF SERVICE TABLE
Study
Inter‐
section Intersection
LOS
Stan‐
dard
Peak
Hour
No Project Land Use Alternative B
Avg. Delay LOS Avg. Delay LOS
Change in
Crit. V/C
Change in
Crit. Delay
1 SR 85 SB Ramps and
Stevens Creek Boulevarda D
AM 29.2 C 31.1 C 0.095 3.3
PM 29.1 C 31.0 C 0.073 2.6
2 SR 85 NB Ramps and
Stevens Creek Boulevarda D AM 51.1 D‐ 60.2 E 0.057 16.1
PM 20.9 C+ 20.9 C+ 0.080 1.4
3 Stelling Road and Stevens
Creek Boulevarda E+ AM 46.2 D 47.2 D 0.040 ‐1.0
PM 52.9 D‐ 84.1 F 0.219 63.9
4 Sunnyvale‐Saratoga Road
and Fremont Avenueb E AM 42.8 D 43.7 D 0.034 1.6
PM 52.5 D‐ 60.1 E 0.059 13.0
5
Sunnyvale‐Saratoga
Road/De Anza Boulevard
and Homestead Roada
D AM 51.2 D‐ 82.1 F 0.188 54.7
PM 66.1 E 159.8 F 0.427 188.7
6 De Anza Boulevard and D AM 46.4 D 83.2 F 0.294 127.0
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
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TABLE 5.3‐10 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B INTERSECTION LEVELS OF SERVICE TABLE
Study
Inter‐
section Intersection
LOS
Stan‐
dard
Peak
Hour
No Project Land Use Alternative B
Avg. Delay LOS Avg. Delay LOS
Change in
Crit. V/C
Change in
Crit. Delay
I‐280 NB Rampa PM 71.7 E 136.9 F 0.506 221.9
7 De Anza Boulevard and
I‐280 SB Rampa D AM 47.0 D 83.8 F 0.251 102.0
PM 35.3 D+ 85.1 F 0.452 193.8
8 De Anza Boulevard and
Stevens Creek Boulevarda E+ AM 45.8 D 50.3 D 0.050 5.7
PM 76.2 E‐ 144.2 F 0.402 169.3
9
De Anza Boulevard and
McClellan Road/Pacifica
Drive
D AM 33.0 C‐ 35.4 D+ 0.068 3.2
PM 70.7 E 94.3 F 0.102 36.1
10 De Anza Boulevard and
Bollinger Roada E+ AM 44.0 D 47.1 D 0.037 4.7
PM 25.1 C 22.9 C+ 0.019 ‐1.2
11 De Anza Boulevard and SR
85 NB Rampa D AM 32.9 C‐ 35.1 D+ 0.054 2.6
PM 16.4 B 22.6 C+ 0.091 10.2
12 De Anza Boulevard and SR
85 SB Rampa D AM 23.9 C 25.3 C 0.040 2.1
PM 22.2 C+ 25.9 C 0.102 6.9
13 Blaney Avenue and
Homestead Road D AM 34.9 C‐ 43.9 D 0.142 12.9
PM 16.4 B 21.5 C+ 0.150 6.4
14 \Wolfe Roadand El Camino
Real (SR 82)b E AM 47.6 D 47.8 D 0.010 0.4
PM 51.8 D‐ 52.8 D‐ 0.022 1.0
15 Wolfe Road and Fremont
Avenuec E AM 45.8 D 46.9 D 0.016 0.8
PM 51.8 D‐ 56.0 E+ 0.033 3.1
16 Wolfe Road and Homestead
Road D AM 36.3 D+ 38.3 D+ 0.050 2.4
PM 51.9 D‐ 96.9 F 0.198 66.5
17 Wolfe Road and Pruneridge
Avenue D AM 17.0 B 20.6 C+ 0.077 4.7
PM 26.9 C 36.8 D+ 0.074 13.8
18 Wolfe Road and I‐280 NB
Rampa D AM 88.3 F 104.9 F 0.067 29.2
PM 36.5 D+ 55.8 E+ 0.094 35.8
19 Wolfe Road and I‐280 SB
Rampa D AM 38.9 D+ 49.8 D 0.056 20.5
PM 24.7 C 27.8 C 0.011 1.8
20 Wolfe Road and Vallco
Pkwy D AM 26.4 C 28.0 C 0.045 1.4
PM 51.2 D‐ 42.6 D ‐0.067 ‐18.6
21
Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue
and Stevens Creek
Boulevarda
D AM 46.5 D 46.5 D 0.013 0.4
PM 72.2 E 49.8 D ‐0.119 ‐32.2
22 Miller Avenue and Bollinger
Road g D AM 42.0 D 42.2 D 0.008 0.4
PM 44.2 D 46.1 D 0.020 3.2
23 Finch Avenue and Stevens
Creek Boulevard D AM 26.6 C 24.3 C 0.070 ‐0.9
PM 41.8 D 41.0 D ‐0.085 ‐2.5
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-153
TABLE 5.3‐10 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B INTERSECTION LEVELS OF SERVICE TABLE
Study
Inter‐
section Intersection
LOS
Stan‐
dard
Peak
Hour
No Project Land Use Alternative B
Avg. Delay LOS Avg. Delay LOS
Change in
Crit. V/C
Change in
Crit. Delay
24
North Tantau Avenue/Quail
Avenue and Homestead
Road
D AM 49.6 D 56.9 E+ 0.064 11.3
PM 43.6 D 48.1 D 0.052 6.4
25 North Tantau Avenue and
Pruneridge Avenue D AM 29.2 C 30.1 C 0.022 0.6
PM 16.6 B 16.8 B 0.010 0.4
26 North Tantau Avenue and
Vallco Pkwy D AM 29.2 C 29.8 C 0.004 0.4
PM 34.6 C‐ 35.7 D+ 0.009 1.0
27 Tantau Avenue and Stevens
Creek Boulevard D AM 47.4 D 50.3 D 0.058 4.0
PM 56.8 E+ 64.0 E 0.042 11.0
28 Lawrence Expressway and
Homestead Roadd E AM 59.0 E+ 61.4 E 0.014 4.0
PM 58.0 E+ 64.4 E 0.024 7.6
29 I‐280 SB Ramp and Stevens
Creek Boulevarde E AM 34.8 C‐ 44.1 D 0.063 14.6
PM 84.9 F 80.6 F ‐0.024 ‐10.0
30 Agilent Tech Driveway and
Stevens Creek Boulevardf D AM 52.9 D‐ 65.9 E 0.045 16.5
PM 29.8 C 30.1 C ‐0.021 ‐0.1
31
Lawrence Expressway SB
Ramp and Stevens Creek
Boulevardd
E AM 72.8 E 90.6 F 0.058 24.0
PM 29.9 C 29.8 C ‐0.030 ‐1.3
32
Lawrence Expressway NB
Ramp and Stevens Creek
Boulevardd
E AM 53.9 D‐ 69.2 E 0.058 19.1
PM 30.1 C 29.7 C 0.008 0.6
33
Lawrence Expressway and
Calvert Drive/I‐280 SB
Rampd
E AM 48.6 D 49.2 D 0.004 0.8
PM 50.6 D 50.1 D ‐0.002 ‐0.5
34
Lawrence Expressway and
Bollinger Road/Moorpark
Avenued
E AM 60.5 E 61.1 E 0.003 0.9
PM 46.0 D 45.5 D ‐0.012 0.1
35 De Anza Boulevard and
Rainbow Drive (south) D AM 20.2 C+ 19.7 B‐ 0.023 ‐0.3
PM 19.2 B‐ 18.8 B‐ 0.048 0.1
36
Bubb Road/Peninsula
Boulevard and Stevens
Creek Boulevard
D AM 31.0 C 31.3 C 0.079 1.3
PM 31.1 C 33.2 C‐ 0.080 2.0
37
North Stelling
Road/Hollenbeck Avenue
and Homestead Road
D AM 38.5 D+ 39.8 D 0.060 4.3
PM 43.6 D 44.4 D 0.035 2.8
38 Blaney Avenue and Stevens
Creek Boulevard D AM 34.1 C‐ 37.8 D+ 0.117 6.3
PM 40.0 D 37.8 D+ 0.009 4.2
39 Foothill Boulevard and
Stevens Creek Boulevard D AM 48.7 D 49.2 D 0.011 1.8
PM 25.2 C 26.6 C 0.026 1.8
40 Stelling Road and McClellan
Road D AM 32.1 C‐ 32.2 C‐ 0.000 0.0
PM 35.6 D+ 35.8 D+ 0.002 0.4
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
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TABLE 5.3‐10 LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B INTERSECTION LEVELS OF SERVICE TABLE
Study
Inter‐
section Intersection
LOS
Stan‐
dard
Peak
Hour
No Project Land Use Alternative B
Avg. Delay LOS Avg. Delay LOS
Change in
Crit. V/C
Change in
Crit. Delay
41 Wolfe Road and Apple
Campus Access h D AM 18.9 B‐ 21.3 C+ 0.049 5.4
PM 36.8 D+ 44.1 D 0.060 8.4
Notes: Bold and underlined indicates a substandard level of service
Bold, underlined, and shaded in gray indicates a significant project impact
a. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Cupertino. Cupertino applies its own standard of LOS D to CMP intersections.
b. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Sunnyvale. The CMP’s standard of LOS E applies.
c. The City of Sunnyvale is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
d. This is a CMP Intersection on a County Expressway. The CMP and County’s standard of LOS E applies.
e. This is a CMP intersection within the City of Santa Clara. The CMP’s standard of LOS applies.
f. The City of Santa Clara is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
g. The City of San Jose is the controlling jurisdiction for the intersection.
h. This is a future intersection.
As shown in Table 5.3-10, six (6) of the eleven (11) intersections that would operate at an unacceptable level
of service for at least one (1) peak hour under Land Use Alternative B were also predicted to operate at an
unacceptable level of service under the No Project scenario. The Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue and Stevens
Creek Boulevard (#21) intersection would operate at an unacceptable level of service for at least one peak
hour under the No Project scenario improved from unacceptable to acceptable levels of service: LOS E to
LOS D – PM Peak Hour.
The intersections that would operate at an unacceptable level of service are bolded and underlined in Table
5.3-10. All other study intersections would continue to operate at acceptable levels of service under Land
Use Alternative B conditions. The level-of-service calculation sheets are included in Appendix G,
Transportation and Traffic Data, of this Draft EIR.
Based on applying the significance criteria for traffic impacts discussed in Section 4.13.5, Thresholds of
Significance, in Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR, there would be a significant
impact at twelve (12) of the study intersections under Land Use Alternative B during one or both peak
hours, as highlighted in the Table 4.13-10, Proposed Project Intersection Levels of Service Table, of Chapter
4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR.
The following twelve (12) intersections would experience a significant impact under Land Use Alternative
B traffic conditions:
SR 85 Northbound Ramps and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#2): LOS E – AM Peak Hour
Stelling Road and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#3): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5): LOS E- and F – AM and PM
Peak Hours, respectively
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6): LOS F – AM and PM Peak Hours
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Southbound Ramp (#7): LOS F – AM and PM Peak Hours
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
De Anza Boulevard and McClellan Road/Pacifica Drive (#9): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
Wolfe Road and Homestead Road (#16): LOS E – PM Peak Hour
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Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): LOS F – AM Peak Hour
North Tantau Avenue/Quail Avenue and Homestead Road (#24): LOS E – AM Peak Hour
Stevens Creek Boulevard and Tantau Avenue (#27): LOS E – PM Peak Hour
Lawrence Expressway Southbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#31): LOS F – AM Peak Hour
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Measure TRAF-1: The City of Cupertino shall commit to preparing and implementing a
Traffic Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that
are necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards. As part
of the preparation of the Traffic Mitigation Fee Program, the City shall also commit to preparing a
"nexus" study that will serve as the basis for requiring development impact fees under AB 1600
legislation, as codified by California Code Government Section 66000 et seq., to support
implementation of the proposed Project. The established procedures under AB 1600 require that a
"reasonable relationship" or nexus exist between the traffic improvements and facilities required to
mitigate the traffic impacts of new development pursuant to the proposed Project. The following
examples of traffic improvements and facilities would reduce impacts to acceptable level of service
standards and these, among other improvements, could be included in the development impact fees
nexus study:
SR 85 Northbound Ramps and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#2): An exclusive left-turn lane
for the northbound leg of the intersection (freeway off-ramp) at the intersection of SR 85 and
Stevens Creek Boulevard would result in one left-turn lane, one all-movement lane, and one right
turn lane. The additional lane could be added within the existing Caltrans right-of-way.
Stelling Road and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#3): The addition of a second exclusive left-
turn lane for the eastbound leg of the intersection from Stevens Creek Boulevard to northbound
Stelling Road, which could be accomplished by reworking the median. Right turns would share the
bike lane.
Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5): Widen De
Anza Boulevard to four lanes in each direction or the installation of triple left-turn lanes.
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6): Restriping of De Anza Boulevard in
the southbound direction to provide room for right turn vehicles to be separated from through
traffic may be required. The bike lane would be maintained, and right turns would occur from the
bike lane. The right turns would continue to be controlled by the signal and would need to yield to
pedestrians. Painting a bike box at the front of the lane to provide space for bikes wait at red lights
may enhance the bicycle experience.
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): Restripe westbound Stevens Creek
Boulevard to provide room for right turn vehicles to be separated from through vehicles may be
required. The right turn vehicles will share the bike lane and will still be controlled by the traffic
signal. Paint a bike box at the front of the lane to provide bikes a place to wait at red lights. The
pedestrian crossings will not be affected may enhance the bicycling experience.
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De Anza Boulevard and McClellan Road/Pacifica Drive (#9): Realign the intersection
that is currently offset resulting in inefficient signal timing such that the McClellan Road and
Pacifica Drive legs are across from each other may be required. In addition, double left turn lanes
may be required to be added to De Anza Boulevard with sections of double lanes on McClellan
Road and Pacifica Drive to receive the double left turn lanes. These improvements will require the
acquisition of right-of-way and demolition of existing commercial buildings. However, some
existing right-of-way could be abandoned, which would reduce the net right-of-way take.
Wolfe Road and Homestead Road (#16): The addition of a third southbound through lane to
the southbound approach of the intersection of Wolfe Road and Homestead Road may be required,
as well as the addition of a southbound exclusive right-turn lane. Three southbound receiving lanes
on the south side of the intersection currently exist. An additional westbound through lane for a
total of three through-movement lanes, an additional receiving lane on Homestead westbound to
receive the additional through lane, as well as the addition of a westbound exclusive right-turn lane
may be required. This will require widening Homestead Road. An additional eastbound through
lane for a total of three through-movement lanes, an additional receiving lane on Homestead
eastbound to receive the additional through lane, as well as the addition of an eastbound exclusive
left-turn lane for a total of two left-turn lanes may be required. These improvements will require
the acquisition of right-of-way and demolition of parking areas.
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): An additional northbound through lane for
a total of three through-movement lanes may be required. This will require widening the Wolfe
Road overcrossing. The lane needs to be extended north of the interchange so that there are a
continuous three lanes northbound. Right-of-way acquisition may be required. In addition to
widening the overcrossing, the City may wish to pursue a redesign of the interchange to go from a
partial cloverleaf design to a diamond design. This could help with heavy volumes in the right lane,
which contributes to the level-of-service deficiency.
North Tantau Avenue/Quail Avenue and Homestead Road (#24): Restriping of the
southbound leg of the intersection (Quail Avenue) to provide a separate left turn lane may be
required. This will require the removal of on-street parking near the intersection. The level-of-
service calculations show that with implementation of these improvements, the intersection would
operate at an acceptable LOS D.
Tantau Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#27): The addition of a separate left-turn lane
to northbound Tantau Avenue may be required. Right-of-way acquisition and demolition of existing
commercial buildings would be required.
Lawrence Expressway Southbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard (CMP,
County)(#31): The addition of a second right-turn lane for the southbound leg of the intersection
at the Lawrence Expressway Southbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard may be required. Both
lanes would need to be controlled by the signal, and disallow right turns on red. Right-of-way
acquisition may be required.
The fees shall be assessed when there is new construction, an increase in square footage in an existing
building, or the conversion of existing square footage to a more intensive use. The fees collected shall be
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-157
applied toward circulation improvements and right-of-way acquisition. The fees shall be calculated by
multiplying the proposed square footage, dwelling unit, or hotel room by the appropriate rate. Traffic
mitigation fees shall be included with any other applicable fees payable at the time the building permit is
issued. The City shall use the traffic mitigation fees to fund construction (or to recoup fees advanced to
fund construction) of the transportation improvements identified above, among other things that at the
time of potential future development may be warranted to mitigate traffic impacts.
While implementation of Mitigation Measure TRAF-1 would secure a funding mechanism for future
roadway and infrastructure improvements that are necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based
on then current standards, impacts would remain significant and unavoidable, because the City cannot
guarantee improvements at these intersections at this time. This is in part because the nexus study has yet to
be prepared and because some of the impacted intersections are under the jurisdictions of the Cities of
Sunnyvale and Santa Clara and Caltrans. Specifically, the following intersections are outside the jurisdiction
of Cupertino:
SR 85 Northbound Ramps and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#2)
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6)
Wolfe Road and Homestead Road (#16)
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18)
North Tantau Avenue/Quail Avenue and Homestead Road (#24)
Lawrence Expressway Southbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard (CMP, County)(#31)
However, the City of Cupertino will continue to cooperate with these jurisdictions to identify
improvements that would reduce or minimize the impacts to intersections and roadways as a result of
implementation of future development projects in Cupertino.
Significance with Mitigation: Significant and Unavoidable.
Roadway Segments Average Daily Traffic Volumes
In order to better characterize the conditions on Cupertino’s arterials and major collectors, 33 roadway
segments were selected for evaluation under 2040 conditions. Figure 4.13-1, Study Intersections and
Roadway Segments, in Section 4.13.1, Study Intersections and Roadway Segments, of Chapter 4.13,
Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR, showed each roadway segment number, and Figure 4.13-6,
Roadway Segments Volumes, in Section 4.13.4, Existing Conditions and Environmental Setting, of Chapter
4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR, graphically illustrated the existing traffic volumes on
these roadway segments, rounded to the nearest thousand.
Table 5.3-11 presents the existing 24-hour traffic volume data (Average Daily Traffic, or ADT) for each
roadway segment, as well as ADT under No Project conditions, and under Land Use Alternative B
conditions.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-158 JUNE 18,2014
TABLE 5.3‐11 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC ON SELECTED ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Segment # Location
Existing
ADT
2040 Forecast Volume
No
Project
Land Use
Alt B
1 Foothill Blvd north of Stevens Creek Blvd 20,878 24,183 24,031
2 Stevens Creek Blvd east of Crescent Rd 29,371 34,689 33,814
3 Bubb Rd south of Stevens Creek Blvd 13,339 16,436 17,978
4 Stevens Creek Blvd west of Stelling Rd 30,587 30,404 32,052
5 Stelling Rd south of Stevens Creek Blvd 14,710 29,485 30,142
6 Stelling Rd north of Stevens Creek Blvd 17,493 23,644 25,721
7 Stevens Creek Blvd east of Stelling Rd 28,730 39,569 40,978
8 Homestead Rd east of Ontario Dr 18,357 20,246 25,047
9 De Anza Blvd south of Bollinger Rd 36,756 46,073 47,715
10 De Anza Blvd south of Stevens Creek Blvd 43,216 52,030 54,074
11 De Anza Blvd north of Stevens Creek Blvd 42,455 53,221 54,141
12 De Anza Blvd south of Homestead Rd 52,676 53,666 54,647
13 Sunnyvale‐Saratoga Rd north of Homestead Rd 42,246 47,833 46,412
14 Bollinger Rd east of De Anza Blvd 15,877 20,202 20,610
15 Stevens Creek Blvd east of De Anza Blvd 30,779 41,803 44,739
16 Homestead Rd east of De Anza Blvd 24,876 35,070 36,398
17 Blaney Ave north of Stevens Creek Blvd 6,294 8,677 8,254
18 Stevens Creek Blvd east of Blaney Ave 30,348 42,549 46,704
19 Homestead Rd east of Blaney Ave 22,895 32,807 34,453
20 Miller Ave south of Stevens Creek Blvd 17,379 26,621 28,941
21 Wolfe Rd north of Vallco Pkwy 34,200 45,606 47,194
22 Wolfe Rd south of Homestead Rd 31,751 41,655 42,505
23 Wolfe Rd north of Homestead Rd 18,825 31,744 33,314
24 Vallco Parkway east of Wolfe Rd 2,917 3,947 9,824
25 Homestead Rd east of Wolfe Rd 10,481 21,456 22,483
26 Tantau Ave north of Vallco Pkwy 6,839 9,708 10,681
27 Stevens Creek Blvd east of Tantau Ave 27,515 32,208 36,136
28 Bollinger Rd east of Johnson Ave 11,164 23,374 24,079
29 Lawrence Expy north of Bollinger Rd 23,577 42,606 46,337
30 Lawrence Expy south of Pruneridge Ave 69,249 87,142 98,404
31 Stevens Creek Blvd west of Tantau Ave 25,476 34,543 36,485
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-159
TABLE 5.3‐11 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC ON SELECTED ROADWAY SEGMENTS – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
Segment # Location
Existing
ADT
2040 Forecast Volume
No
Project
Land Use
Alt B
32 Wolfe Rd south of I‐280 NB Ramps (over I‐280) 36,190 44,547 46,795
33 Homestead Rd west of Stelling Rd 16,990 22,541 23,596
Source: Tube counts conducted on Wed, Sept. 18, 2013. Hexagon Transportation Consultants, Inc.
Cupertino does not have level of service analysis methodologies, standards, or thresholds of significance for
roadway segments. Therefore, the ADT projections for the future scenarios are presented for informational
purposes. Any project impacts to traffic operations are fully captured by the intersection analysis.
Freeway Levels of Service
Ten (10) freeway segments were selected for analysis under 2040 conditions. As described in Section 4.13.5,
Thresholds of Significance, of Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR, the addition of
project traffic causes a traffic impact on a CMP freeway segment when:
The level of service of the freeway segment is LOS F under existing conditions, and
The number of new trips added by the project is more than one percent of the freeway capacity.
Table 5.3-12 presents the daily capacity of both the mixed-flow lanes and the High Occupancy Vehicle
(HOV) lanes on each of the study freeway segments. Since daily LOS is not available for freeway segments,
the lowest of the two peak-hour LOS levels, as reported in VTA’s 2012 CMP Monitoring Study, is also
shown.
Table 5.3-12 presents the number of additional trips that would be generated under the proposed Land Use
Alternative B conditions in comparison with the number of trips projected under the 2040 No Project
conditions in both the mixed-flow lanes and the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane on each of the study
freeway segments. Table 5.3-12 also indicates the percentage of capacity that the projected number of
additional trips represents. If there is a percentage increase greater than 1 percent and the existing LOS is
shown as F, then there would be a significant impact.
None of the HOV lane segments would be significantly impacted under this Alternative. However, under
Land Use Alternative B conditions, the following four (4) mixed-lane freeway segments would be
significantly impacted:
SR 85 Southbound between I-280 and Stevens Creek Boulevard
I-280 Eastbound between Lawrence Expressway and Saratoga Avenue
I-280 Westbound between Saratoga Avenue and Lawrence Expressway
I-280 Westbound between De Anza Boulevard and SR 85
GE
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JUNE 18,2014
TAB
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# of
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Da
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(v
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p
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Existing LOSa Project Trips % CapacityImpact?
SR
85
Sa
r
a
t
o
g
a
Av
e
to
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
NB
2
44
,
0
0
0
E
19
5
0.
4
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
E 24 0.1% No
SR
85
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
to
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bl
v
d
NB
2
44
,
0
0
0
F
20
2
0.
5
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
E 27 0.2% No
SR
85
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bl
v
d
to
I‐28
0
NB
2
44
,
0
0
0
C
39
2
0.
9
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 60 0.4% No
SR
85
I‐28
0
to
W.
Ho
m
e
s
t
e
a
d
Rd
NB
2
44
,
0
0
0
F
34
4
0.
8
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
F 43 0.3% No
SR
85
W.
Ho
m
e
s
t
e
a
d
Rd
to
I‐28
0
SB
2
44
,
0
0
0
C ‐
1,
7
0
8
‐
3.
9
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
B 48 0.3% No
SR
85
I‐28
0
to
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bl
v
d
SB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
1,
7
4
7
2.
5
%
Ye
s
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 121 0.7% No
SR
85
St
e
v
e
n
s
Cr
e
e
k
Bl
v
d
to
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
SB
2
44
,
0
0
0
F ‐
82
‐
0.
2
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 41 0.2% No
SR
85
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
to
Sa
r
a
t
o
g
a
Av
e
SB
2
44
,
0
0
0
F ‐
24
6
‐
0.
6
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
C 2 0.0% No
I‐28
0
Ma
g
d
a
l
e
n
a
Av
e
to
Fo
o
t
h
i
l
l
Ex
p
w
y
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
D ‐
1,
2
1
7
‐
1.
8
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
B ‐38 ‐0.2% No
I‐28
0
Fo
o
t
h
i
l
l
Ex
p
w
y
to
SR
85
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
D ‐
1,
1
7
6
‐
1.
7
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
C ‐73 ‐0.4% No
I‐28
0
SR
85
to
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
E
18
1
0.
3
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
C 5 0.0% No
I‐28
0
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
to
Wo
l
f
e
Rd
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
E
38
7
0.
6
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 142 0.9% No
I‐28
0
Wo
l
f
e
Rd
to
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
w
y
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
D
75
3
1.
1
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
C 131 0.8% No
I‐28
0
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
w
y
to
Sa
r
a
t
o
g
a
Av
e
EB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
85
3
1.
2
%
Ye
s
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D 32 0.2% No
I‐28
0
Sa
r
a
t
o
g
a
Av
e
to
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
w
y
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
98
6
1.
4
%
Ye
s
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
E ‐28 ‐0.2% No
I‐28
0
La
w
r
e
n
c
e
Ex
p
w
y
to
Wo
l
f
e
Rd
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F ‐
3,
2
7
2
‐
4.
7
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
E ‐21 ‐0.1% No
I‐28
0
Wo
l
f
e
Rd
to
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
45
6
0.
7
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
F 33 0.2% No
I‐28
0
De
An
z
a
Bl
v
d
to
SR
85
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F
79
8
1.
2
%
Ye
s
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
F 100 0.6% No
I‐28
0
SR
85
to
Fo
o
t
h
i
l
l
Ex
p
w
y
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
F ‐
39
4
‐
0.
6
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
F ‐83 ‐0.5% No
I‐28
0
Fo
o
t
h
i
l
l
Ex
p
w
y
to
Ma
g
d
a
l
e
n
a
Av
e
WB
3
69
,
0
0
0
D
39
6
0.
6
%
No
1
1,
6
5
0
16
,
5
0
0
D ‐33 ‐0.2% No
No
t
e
:
Bo
l
d
Ye
s
in
d
i
c
a
t
e
s
a si
g
n
i
f
i
c
a
n
t
pr
o
j
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c
t
im
p
a
c
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.
So
u
r
c
e
:
Sa
n
t
a
Cl
a
r
a
Va
l
l
e
y
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
Au
t
h
o
r
i
t
y
Co
n
g
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s
t
i
o
n
Ma
n
a
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m
e
n
t
Pr
o
g
r
a
m
Mo
n
i
t
o
r
i
n
g
St
u
d
y
,
20
1
2
.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-161
Mitigation Measures
Even with implementation of Mitigation Measure TRAF-1, which includes preparing and implementing a
Traffic Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that are
necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards, the impacts
would be significant and unavoidable.
Significance Without Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
Vehicle Miles Traveled with Land Use Alternative B
As described above under Section 4.13.2.1, Regulatory Setting, of Chapter 4.13, Traffic and Transportation,
the VTA countywide travel demand model is used to help evaluate cumulative transportation impacts of
local land use decisions on the CMP system. Therefore, the daily (24-hour) VMT were tabulated with Land
Use Alternative B using the Santa Clara VTA countywide travel demand model with refined land use
estimates for the City of Cupertino. The VMT estimates in the VTA model are sensitive to changes in land
use. Generally, land uses that reflect a more balanced jobs-housing ratio in the VTA model result in lower
per capita VMT.
The total daily VMT and the VMT per capita are presented in Table 5.3-13. As shown in the table, VMT per
capita is forecast to increase to 10.2 miles per service population per day in 2040 with this Alternative,
compared to 10.5 miles per service population per day in 2013 under existing conditions. As discussed in
the Air Quality discussion above, daily VMT in the Project Study Area would increase at a slower rate (22.3
percent) between 2013 and 2040 than would the service population of the Project Study Area (25.0
percent). A slight decrease such as this could be indicative of increased development of both households and
jobs, with potentially higher rates of increases in jobs (than households) in a relatively jobs-rich area,
providing opportunities for increases in average trip lengths.
TABLE 5.3‐13 VMT PER CAPITA
2000‐2020 General Plan
Land Use
Alternative B
Daily VMT 997,145 1,097,596
Household Units 23,294 24,715
Total Population 63,873 68,051
Total Jobs 30,848 39,092
VMT Per Capita 10.5 10.2
Source: Association of Bay Area Government (ABAG) Projections 2013; Hexagon Transportation Consultants.
2014.
The VMT by trip orientation is presented in Table 5.3-14. As shown in the table for Land Use Alternative B,
much of the VMT is oriented to internal-external trip making. However, there is not an overwhelming
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-162 JUNE 18,2014
imbalance of internal-external trip making over external-internal trip making for Land Use Alternative B
compared to the current General Plan or compared to the Project.
TABLE 5.3‐14 VMT BY TRIP ORIENTATION
Trip Orientation
2000‐2020
General Plan
2000‐2020 General Plan
VMT Proportions
Land Use
Alternative B
Project VMT
Proportions
Total Cupertino VMTa 997,145 100% 1,097,596 100%
Internal‐External VMTb 540,670 54% 608,058 55%
External‐Internal VMTc 413,479 42% 439,508 40%
Internal‐External VMTd 42,996 4% 50,030 5%
Notes: Estimate of 2030 VMT is based on the current Comprehensive Plan and on preliminary land use projections.
a. Trips with one trip end outside Cupertino were counted as one trip‐end, whereas trips with both ends in Cupertino were counted as two trip‐
ends.
b. “Internal‐External” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base in Cupertino and a work or non‐work destination
outside Cupertino.
c. “External‐Internal” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base outside Cupertino and a work or non‐work destination
in Cupertino
d. “Internal‐Internal” VMT refers to VMT generated by trips associated with a home base in Cupertino and a work or non‐work destination in
Cupertino.
Source: Hexagon Transportation Consultants. 2014.
As discussed in Section 4.13.2.1, Regulatory Setting, of Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, SB 743
requires impacts to transportation network performance to be viewed through a filter that promotes the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the development of multimodal transportation networks, and a
diversity of land uses. Some alternative metrics were identified in SB 743 including VMT, which can help
identify how projects (land development and infrastructure) influence accessibility (i.e. access to places and
people) and even emissions, but they do not provide information about how the transportation network
performs or functions with respect to efficiency or user experience. Accessibility is an important planning
objective in many communities, including Cupertino, but so is travel time or delay experienced by users. SB
743 does not prevent a city or county from continuing to analyze delay or LOS as part of other plans (i.e.
the general plan), studies, or on-going network monitoring, but once the new CEQA Guidelines are
implemented, which is estimated to be following the certification and adoption by the Secretary for
Resources of the final draft of changes to CEQA Guidelines by OPR on July 1, 2014, these metrics may no
longer constitute the sole basis for CEQA impacts.
While Cupertino does not currently have VMT analysis methodologies, standards, or thresholds of
significance, this analysis has been provided for informational purposes only. However, because future
growth under the proposed Project would come incrementally over approximately 26 years and would be
guided by a policy framework that is generally consistent with many of the principal goals and objectives
established in regional planning initiatives for the Bay Area, this additional growth would be consistent with
the regional planning objectives established for the Bay Area, which concentrates new development within
infill sites and within PDAs.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-163
TRAF-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would conflict with an
applicable congestion management program, including, but not limited to
level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other standards
established by the county congestion management agency for designated
roads or highways.
CMP Impacts
Of the 41 study intersections included in this EIR document, 21 are included in Santa Clara County’s
Congestion Management Program (CMP). Impact TRAF-1, which presents the results of the impact analysis
under 2040 No Project Conditions and Land Use Alternative B on all of the study intersections, includes the
21 CMP intersections. Land Use Alternative B resulted in significant impacts to the following eight
(8)CMP intersections during at least one of the peak hours:
SR 85 Northbound Ramps and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#2)
Stelling Road and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#3)
Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5)
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramps (#6)
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Southbound Ramps (#7)
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8)
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18)
Lawrence Expressway Southbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#31)
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation for these impacts is described above in the Impact TRAF-1, and as discussed, even with
implementation of Mitigation Measures TRAF-1, which includes preparing and implementing a Traffic
Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that are
necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards, the impacts to
these CMP intersections would be significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
TRAF-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not substantially increase
hazards due to a design feature (e.g. sharp curves or dangerous
intersection) or incompatible uses (e.g. farm equipment).
Since Land Use Alternative B represents a program-level planning effort, it does not directly address
project-level design features or building specifications; however, the General Plan includes policies and
strategies that, once adopted, would reduce potential hazards due to roadway design or incompatible uses.
Policy 4-10, Roadway Plans that Complement the Needs of Adjacent Land Use, would require that roadway
plans complement the needs of adjacent land uses; under this policy, the City would be required to adopt
road improvement standards for rural, semi-rural, urban, and suburban roads. Policy 4-10 would require
the City to survey intersections to ensure their operation is efficient and promotes the safety of pedestrians
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-164 JUNE 18,2014
and bicyclists. Policy 6-13, Roadway Design, would require the City to involve the Fire Department in the
design of public roadways. Policy 6-16, Hillside Road Upgrades, would “require new hillside development
to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire Code and City standards.” Policy 4-11, Curb Cuts, would
direct developments to minimize the number of resulting curb cuts, thereby reducing potential for vehicle
conflicts. Policy 4-12, Street Improvement Planning, would require streetscape planning to be “an integral
part of a project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles,” and
Policy 4-13, Safe Parking Lots, would “require parking lots that are safe for pedestrians.” Policy 6-56, Road
Improvements to Reduce Truck Impacts, directs the City to consider road improvements to reduce the
impact from trucks. Finally, Strategy 3, Community Protection, of Policy 4-16, Transportation Noise,
Fumes and Hazards, would require protecting the community from the effects of the transportation system,
by enforcing laws related to dangerous and abusive driving, among other requirements.
Future development under the Land Use Alternative B would increase in both residential and commercial
land uses. As these land uses develop, construction and modifications of new and existing roadways would be
necessary to support the growth. As with current practice, the improvements would be designed and
reviewed in accordance to the City of Cupertino Standard Details, which are promulgated and administered
by the City Engineering Department. Additionally, incompatible uses would be discouraged by the General
Plan. Therefore, the impact of Land Use Alternative B would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not result in inadequate
emergency access.
Because Land Use Alternative B is a program-level planning effort, it does not directly address project-level
design features or building specifications; however, the General Plan includes polices that, once adopted,
would ensure efficient circulation and adequate access are provided in the city, which would help facilitate
emergency response. Policy 6-8, Early Project Review, directs the City to “involve the Fire Department in
early design stages of projects requiring public review.” Policy 6-9, Commercial and Industrial Fire
Protection Guidelines, would require the City to coordinate with the Fire Department to develop new
guidelines for fire protection for commercial and industrial land uses. Policy 6-10, Fire Prevention and
Emergency Preparedness, would require the City to promote fire prevention and emergency preparedness
through city-initiated public education programs, through the government television channel, the Internet
and the Cupertino Scene. Policy 6-13, Roadway Design, would require the City to involve the Fire
Department in the design of public roadways and directs the City to ensure that frequent median breaks are
used to provide “timely access.” Additionally, Policy 6-14, Dead-End Street Access, allows the use of private
roadways during emergency responses in hillside subdivisions where dead-end streets impair access. Policy
6-15, Hillside Access Routes, directs the city to require new hillside development to have frequent grade
breaks in access routes to ensure a timely response from fire personnel. Policy 6-16, Hillside Road
Upgrades, directs the city to require new hillside development to upgrade existing access roads to meet Fire
Code and City standards. Finally, Policy 6-17, Private Residential Electronic Security Gates, discourages the
use of private residential electronic security gates to help ensure timely emergency access to these areas.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-165
Any new streets or developments that would result from implementation of Land Use Alternative B would
be subject to City engineering standards and the General Plan policies described above.
Ongoing implementation of the General Plan policies and the City’s engineering standards would ensure
that adequate emergency access is provided in Cupertino. Therefore, impacts associated with the
implementation of Land Use Alternative B would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not conflict with adopted
policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian
facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities.
Both the Valley Transportation Plan 2040, enacted by the Valley Transportation Authority, and Plan Bay Area:
Strategies for a Sustainable Region, the 2040 Regional Transportation Plan enacted by the MTC in 2013,
contain strategies designed to support alternative modes of transportation, including walking, bicycling, and
public transit. Additionally, the City of Cupertino’s Pedestrian Transportation Guidelines and Cupertino
Bicycle Transportation Plan identify and prioritize improvements to enhance the pedestrian and bicycle
environment.
Additionally, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate
public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities are available to the residents of Cupertino. Within the Land
Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-26, Heart of the City Special Area, and supporting strategies,
require the City to create a positive and memorable image along Stevens Creek Boulevard of mixed-use
development; enhanced activity gateways and nodes; and safe and efficient circulation and access for all
modes of transportation. Within the Circulation Element, Policy 4-3, Reduced Reliance on the Use of
Single-Occupant Vehicles, would require the City to promote the use of alternative forms of transportation
instead of single-occupancy vehicles (SOVs) by encouraging attractive alternatives. Supportive strategies
under this policy encourage new developments to include facilities supportive of walking, biking, and transit
use, as well as providing street space for bus turnouts, bike lanes, or other alternative transportation
infrastructure. Policy 4-4, Improve Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation Throughout Cupertino, expressly
directs the City to expand city-wide pedestrian and bicycle circulation in order to provide improved
recreation, mobility and safety. Policy 4-5, Pedestrian Access, would require the City to create pedestrian
access between new subdivisions and school sites, and to review existing neighborhood circulation plans to
improve safety and access for pedestrians and bicyclists to school sites, including completing accessible
network of sidewalks and paths. Policy 4-6, Regional Trail Development, would require the City to continue
to plan and provide for a comprehensive system of trails and pathways consistent with regional systems,
including the Bay Trail, Stevens Creek Corridor and Ridge Trail, and with the policies contained in the Land
Use and Community Design Element. The General Alignment of the Bay Trail, as shown in the Association of
Bay Area Governments’ Bay Trail planning document, is incorporated in the General Plan by reference.
Policy 4-7, Increased Use of Public Transit, would require the City to support and encourage the increased
use of public transit. Policy 4-9, Traffic Service and Pedestrians Needs, would require the City to balance the
needs of pedestrians with desired traffic service, and, where necessary and appropriate, allow a lowered
LOS standard to better accommodate pedestrians on major streets and at specific intersections. Policy 4-12,
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-166 JUNE 18,2014
Street Improvement Planning, would require the City to plan street improvements such as curb cuts,
sidewalks, bus stop turnouts, bus shelters, light poles, benches and trash containers as an integral part of a
project to ensure an enhanced streetscape and the safe movement of people and vehicles with the least
possible disruption to the streetscape. Policy 4-13, Safe Parking Lots, directs the City to require parking lots
that are safe for pedestrians. Policy 4-15, School Traffic Impacts on Neighborhoods, would require the City
to minimize the impact of school drop-off, pick-up and parking on neighborhoods.
Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would therefore support and would not conflict with plans,
programs and policies regarding bicycle or pedestrian facilities, or decrease the performance and safety of
such facilities. Therefore, related impacts from implementation of Land Use Alternative B would be less
than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
TRAF-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in cumulatively
considerable impacts.
The analysis of Land Use Alternative B, above, addresses cumulative impacts to the transportation network
in the city and its surroundings; accordingly, cumulative impacts would be the same as Land Use Alternative
B’s impacts, which are significant and unavoidable.
Significance With Mitigation: Significant and unavoidable.
5.3.7.14 UTILITIES
Water
UTIL-1 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would have insufficient water
supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and
resources, or new or expanded entitlements are needed.
The Project Study Area is within the water utility service area of California Water Service Company (Cal
Water) and San Jose Water Company (SJWC). As discussed in Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems,
the City undertook a Water Supply Evaluation (WSE) in May 2014 to assess the adequacy of the water
supply for Land Use Alternative B. (The WSE is included as Appendix H, Utilities and Service Systems Data,
of this Draft EIR.)
Table 5.3-15 shows the development at buildout (2040) for Land Use Alternative B by water utility service
area. The following discussion describes the impacts of Land Use Alternative B by Cal Water and SJWC
service area.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-167
Cal Water
The 2010 Cal Water LAS District UWMP did not account for the 18.9 percent population increase between
2000 and 2010 provided by US Census data; therefore, the Cal Water LAS District demand in the WSE was
revised due to an increase in population projected for the next 26 years. However, stronger water
conservation targets were used in the WSE than were used in the 2010 UWMP in terms of average water
usage per capita are projected - 159 gpcd for 2020 rather than 193 gpcd as indicated in the 2010 UWMP.
This is due to Cal Water data showing that per capital water usage has declined in the past five years. For the
period from 2009 to 2013, it averaged 136 gpcd. Even using conservative assumptions, the 2040 projected
LAS District total demand is 15,302 acre feet per year (afy) compared to the 2008 actual 15,490 afy.
TABLE 5.3‐15 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT IN CAL WATER AND SJWC SERVICE AREAS
Land Use Alternative B Cal Water
SJWC
(+ Cupertino Water) Total
Residential 2,479 units 837 units 3,361 units
Office 2,355,000 sf 185,231 sf 2,540,231 sf
Commercial 972,734 sf 370,945 sf 1,343,679 sf
Hotel 839 rooms – 839 rooms
Notes: sf = square feet.
Source: Table 2 of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014; prepared with input from the City of Cupertino.
For this Alternative, it is assumed that projected water demand is additive to the LAS District and Apple
Campus 2 demands. Also, it is assumed that development will occur at a relatively constant rate over the 26-
year horizon period. The WSE includes detailed calculations of water demand from this Alternative, based
on the land uses shown in Table 5.3-1. The WSE determined the water demand at buildout (2040) for this
Alternative in the Cal Water LAS District would be 1,560 afy. Therefore, the five-year increase Land Use
Alternative B demand is 312 afy.46 Table 5.3-16 presents the combined projected water demand for the Cal
Water LAS District, Apple Campus 2 development and Land Use Alternative B.
TABLE 5.3‐16 PROJECTED WATER DEMAND CAL WATER LAS DISTRICT +LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B (AFY)
2008
(Actual)
2012
(Actual) 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
LAS District + Apple Campus 2 15,490 12,779 13,641 12,651 13,200 13,749 14,298 14,847
Land Use Alternative B 0 0 0 312 624 936 1,248 1,560
Total 15,490 12,779 13,641 12,963 13,824 14,685 15,546 16,407
Note: afy = acre feet per year.
Source: Table 9 (Cal Water) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014; modified to reflect Land Use Alternative B. Note: the 2015
“Total” demand value in Table 9 of the WSE (14,065) appears to be in error; the assumed correct value (13,641) is reported here.
46 1,560 afy divided by 5 years = 312 afy.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
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In normal hydrologic years, non-contract water47 is expected to be available. Cal Water also expects
increases in approved SCVWD deliveries will eventually reduce availability of non-contract water.
According to the SCVWD, LAS District projected water scheduled delivery amounts will be available
through at least 2035.48
As previously indicated, the LAS District has historically pumped only a fraction of its total annualized
groundwater well capacity, leaving the balance in groundwater storage. Because of this banking practice,
there is an adequate supply of stored groundwater in the aquifers supplying LAS District wells.
Normal Hydrologic Year
Total groundwater supplied is the quantity necessary to make up the difference between LAS District
demand and SCVWD supplies – both scheduled and non-contract deliveries. Therefore, total supply equals
projected demand for any given year. A normal hydrologic year supply is considered the same as the SB X7 7
target water demand projections plus the Apple Campus 2 demand. Table 5.3-17 shows that groundwater
will be reliable throughout the 26-year planning horizon of Land Use Alternative B and that no supply
deficiencies are expected during a normal hydrologic year.49
TABLE 5.3‐17 DEMAND AND SUPPLY COMPARISON ‐ NORMAL HYDROLOGIC YEAR: CAL WATER LAS DISTRICT +LAND
USE ALTERNATIVE B (AFY)
2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
Total Demand 13,641 12,963 13,824 14,685 15,546 16,407
SCVWD Supply 10,200 9,700 10,200 11,200 12,120 13,000
LAS Groundwater 3,441 3,378 3,855 3,831 3,888 3,984
Total Supply 13,6415 13,078 14,055 15,031 16,008 16,984
Difference 0 115 231 346 462 577
Source: Table 14 (Cal Water) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014; Demand modified to reflect Land Use Alternative B; SVWD
Supply and LAS Groundwater supply are as presented in WSE (i.e. original values in Table 14 of WSE). Note: The supply surplus (Difference) shown in the
table is theoretical. Total groundwater actually supplied is the quantity necessary to make up the difference between LAS district demand and SCVWD
supplies – both scheduled and Non‐Contract deliveries. Hence, in practice, total supply always equals projected demand for any given year.
Single Dry Year
In single dry years Cal Water can expect a reduction in non-contract water and may possibly see a reduction
in firm scheduled deliveries. If any reduction in scheduled deliveries were to occur, the needed supply could
be made up by pumping stored groundwater.50
47 Cal Water has a contract with SCVWD until 2035 to purchase treated surface water and convey it to the LAS District. The SCVWD
“contract” water is delivered through four connections within its transmission system. "Non-contract” water is water not included in the
contracted water.
48 California Water Service Company. 2010. 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Los Altos-Suburban District. June 2011.
49 California Water Service Company. 2010. 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Los Altos-Suburban District. June 2011.
50 California Water Service Company. 2010. 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Los Altos-Suburban District. June 2011.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-169
During a single dry year it is unlikely that SCVWD would request a reduction in its retailer’s (i.e. Cal
Water’s or SJWC’s) water demand. SCVWD maintains carryover storage in its reservoirs, locally stored
groundwater reserves, and has access of up to 50,000 afy of drought supplies stored as groundwater in the
Semitropic Groundwater Bank.51 According to SCVWD’s 2010 UWMP there will be a 5 percent shortfall in
treated water contract deliveries in 2020 and 2025. After this time it is expected that projects resulting from
their Water Master Plan will create sufficient additional supplies so that contract deliveries can be met
during single dry years. It is assumed that groundwater will provide the necessary supply to meet dry year
demands if purchased water reductions are required.
Table 5.3-18 shows that increased groundwater pumping would be able to supply the difference in order to
meet 2020 and 2025 demand. Because no reduction in SCVWD supplies are anticipated, the groundwater
supply would remain the same. Therefore, the combination of pumped groundwater and purchased water
will be sufficient to meet projected single-dry year demands
TABLE 5.3‐18 DEMAND AND SUPPLY COMPARISON ‐ ONE DRY YEAR: CAL WATER LAS DISTRICT +LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
(AFY)
2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
Total Demand 13,641 12,963 13,824 14,685 15,546 16,407
SCVWD Supply 10,200 9,700 10,200 11,200 12,120 13,000
LAS Groundwater 3,441 3,378 3,855 3,831 3,888 3,984
Total Supply 13,641 13,078 14,055 15,031 16,008 16,984
Difference 0 115 231 346 462 577
Note: afy = acre feet per year.
Source: Table 15 (Cal Water) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014; Demand modified to reflect Land Use Alternative B; SCVWD
Supply and LAS Groundwater supply as presented in WSE (i.e. original values in Table 15 of WSE). Note: The supply surplus (Difference) shown in the table
is theoretical. Total groundwater actually supplied is the quantity necessary to make up the difference between LAS District demand and SCVWD supplies –
both scheduled and Non‐Contract deliveries. Hence, in practice, total supply always equals projected demand for any given year.
Multiple Dry Years
SCVWD gives highest priority to delivery of Contract water to urban water retailers and indicates it can
deliver 100 percent of its contracted supply obligations even during multiple dry year periods. However,
during such periods, SCVWD will reduce or eliminate deliveries of Non-Contract water. If drought
conditions warrant, SCVWD will reduce or eliminate surface water recharging to aquifers within its service
area. If further reductions are necessary, deliveries to agricultural customers will be reduced or eliminated.
Deliveries to SCVWD urban water retailers are the last to be affected by drought conditions. Based on
SCVWD supplies and policies, Cal Water expects that 100 percent of Contract water will be delivered to
the LAS District during a multiple dry year period. Cal Water also plans on pumping its LAS District
groundwater supplies so that there will be no reduction in total supply available to meet water demands.
51 SCVWD.2013.Board Agenda Memo; Budget Adjustment for 2012 Water Banking Operations; January 22, 2013.
http://cf.valleywater.org/About_Us/Board_of_directors/Board_meetings/_2013_Published_Meetings/MG49261/AS49274/AI49995/DO
50113/DO_50113.pdf.
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In the following multiple dry year period analysis, normal supply of Contract Water is expected to be
available, but Non-Contract deliveries are not. This assumes that reservoir carryover storage in SWP, CVP,
and local systems is average prior to the drought. At the beginning of a prolonged drought period, it is also
assumed that there are adequate supplies of groundwater stored in the aquifers pumped.
Cal Water also assumes that in future multiple dry year periods, SCVWD would initially ask for voluntary
reductions in supply requested by 10 percent. The magnitude of reductions requested could increase
depending on the degree and duration of the drought. SCVWD considers its groundwater and imported
supplies as one source and does not distinguish between water sources when asking for demand reductions
from its retailers. As a result, retail agencies would be asked to reduce total demand, not just imported
water use. Cal Water expects that its LAS District customers would be able to achieve these requested
reductions in water use. In the LAS District, total annual water use per customer is expected to be lower
than in previous dry year periods due to the greater investment in water conservation programs that would
be implemented in coming years. As seen in the more recent drought from 2007-2009, the response by Cal
Water customers in reducing water use would likely occur faster than in past droughts due to improved
water conservation plans and better communications on the need to reduce water use.
Table 5.3-19 compares demand to supply for a 4 year multiple dry year period. For the first three years, the
analysis conservatively assumes that demand would remain unchanged from a normal hydrologic year, and
that in the fourth year demand would decrease by 10 percent as does the delivery of SCWVD “contract”
water. In all cases, the supply is projected to meet 100 percent of demand. It is noted that even if demand
did not decrease by 10 percent in year 4 and SCVWD supply did, the increased groundwater supplied in
2040 would be 1,641 acre feet for a total of 4,713 acre feet, which can be pumped by the LAS District by
increasing well operation times.
TABLE 5.3‐19 DEMAND AND SUPPLY COMPARISON ‐ MULTIPLE DRY YEAR PERIOD (4 YEARS): CAL WATER LAS
DISTRICT + LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B (AFY)
2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
Total Demand: Years 1 ‐ 3 13,641 12,963 13,824 14,685 15,546 16,407
SCVWD Supply 10,200 9,700 10,299 11,200 12,120 13,000
LAS Groundwater 3,441 3,378 3,855 3,831 3,888 3,984
Total Supply 13,641 13,078 14,055 15,031 16,008 16,984
Difference 0 115 231 346 462 577
Total Demand: Year 4 12,279 11,667 12,442 13,216 13,991 14,766
SCVWD Supply 9,180 8,730 9,180 10,080 10,908 11,700
LAS Groundwater 3,099 2,937 3,262 3,136 3,083 3,066
Difference 0 0 0 0 0 0
Note: afy = acre feet per year.
Source: Table 16 (Cal Water) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 20, 2014; Demand years 1‐3 modified to reflect Land Use Alternative B;
Supply years 1‐3 is as presented in WSE (i.e. original values in WSE Table 16); Demand year 4 modified to reflect Land Use Alternative B, and reduced 10
percent[per WSE assumptions]; SCVWD Supply year 4 reduced 10 percent[per WSE assumptions]; LAS Groundwater supply year 4 adjusted so that total
supply matches demand [per assumptions in WSE]. Note: The supply surplus (Difference) shown in the table for years 1‐3 is theoretical. Total groundwater
actually supplied is the quantity necessary to make up the difference between LAS District demand and SCVWD supplies – both scheduled and Non‐
Contract deliveries. Hence, in practice, total supply always equals projected demand for any given year.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-171
As summarized in the WSE, based on the items listed below, it can be reasonably concluded for the next 26
years of operation (2014 – 2040), the LAS District will have adequate water supplies to meet projected
demands associated with Land Use Alternative B under the most conservative assumptions regarding potable
water use for normal hydrologic, single dry year and multiple dry year conditions:52
Adequacy of existing and planned supplies from SCVWD and LAS District groundwater,
Plans to maintain existing wells and construct new ones to increase well production capacity,
Plans to continue to purchase SCVWD Non-Contract water whenever it is made available and thereby
increase basin groundwater storage for use during drought periods,
In-place, ongoing and planned expanded water conser vation programs and best management practices
for reducing demand during normal hydrologic years, single dry year and multiple dry years in
compliance with SB X7 7, CPUC and MOU requirements,
Cal Water’s historic proven success in obtaining increased reductions in water use during multiple dry
years by implementing its demand reduction program, and
Over 80 years of experience in continuously providing an adequate supply to meet demands during
normal, single and multiple dry years in the LAS District.
In summary, buildout of Land Use Alternative B would not result in insufficient water supplies from Cal
Water under normal year conditions. In addition, during single dry year and multiple dry years, with the
proposed and existing water conservation regulations and measures in place, buildout of Land Use
Alternative B also would not result in a significant impact on water supply from Cal Water.
San Jose Water Company
Table 5.3-20 shows the actual amount of water supplied to SJWC’s system from each source in 2010 and
projections until 2035. Projected surface water is based on a long term average at SJWC. Groundwater and
SCVWD Treated Water projections include SJWC’s plan to acquire additional water needed for
development projects by installing production wells within the distribution system, by purchasing additional
treated water from SCVWD and recycled water from the South Bay Water Recycling Program. The overall
long-term strategy for groundwater as discussed in the 2003 SCVWD Integrated Water Resource Planning
Study (IWRP) is to maximize the amount of water available in the groundwater basins to protect against
drought and emergencies. SCVWD attempts to maximize use of treated local and imported water when
available.
As previously noted, conservation is treated by SJWC as an additional source of water that offsets potable
water demand. SJWC projects an increase in conser vation through 2035 to over 5,500 afy conserved due to
implementation of a more intensified conservation program. Conservation savings are anticipated resulting
from increased use of ultra-low flush toilets, high efficiency toilets, low flow showerheads, water efficient
appliances, individual conservation, and reduction in landscape irrigation requirements.
52California Water Service Company. 2010. 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Los Altos-Suburban District. June 2011.
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TABLE 5.3‐20 CURRENT AND PROJECTED SJWC WATER SUPPLY – INCLUDING CONSERVATION (AFY)
2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035
SCVWD Treated Water 64,783 72,636 74,344 76,086 77,864 79,677
SJWC Groundwater 51,107 57,187 58,340 59,516 60,716 61,940
SJWC Surface Water 15,968 12,080 12,080 12,080 12,080 12,080
Total Demand 131,858 141,903 144,764 147,682 150,660 153,697
Recycled Water 1,208 2,556 4,980 5,234 5,501 5,782
Additional Conservation 4,886 5,106 5,300 5,438 5,579 5,579
Total with Conservation 137,952 149,565 155,044 158,354 161,740 165,058
Note: afy = acre feet per year.
Source: Table 6 (SJWC) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 15, 2014.
The SCVWD will continue to work with SJWC and other local water retailers to refine future projections
of both treated water and groundwater use to ensure planning efforts are consistent. Groundwater from the
Basin is a substantial source of water for SJWC’s entire service area. In the past five years, groundwater has
been the source for approximately one third of SJWC’s total supply.
The City of Cupertino, as discussed previously, has leased the operation and maintenance of its water system
to SJWC. Based on information from SJWC, approximately 98 percent of water supply for the City’s water
system is purchased from SCVWD. SJWC periodically operates two city wells with a nominal pumping rate
of 500 gpm each for a combined production of 1,000 gpm. For the 17 years that SJWC has been operating
the Cupertino system, increases in demand have been met by increased purchases from SCVWD and are
factored into the demand projections made by SJWC in Table 5.3-20. Therefore, the water supply analysis
provided for SJWC also applies to the City of Cupertino system.
SJWC has multiple sources of water which provide a high degree of supply reliability. For added reliability,
SJWC incorporates diesel fueled generators which will operate wells and pumps in the event of power
outages. Because SCVWD supplies nearly 90 percent of SJWC’s annual water supply, SJWC depends on
SCVWD’s supply reliability measures.
SJWC has an established well replacement program. The program identifies and replaces two wells per year
based on numerous criteria, including a well’s production and observed water quality problems. The
replacement of older wells and optimization of existing wells will allow SJWC to maintain its groundwater
supply reliability. SCVWD’s policy is to achieve 95 percent reliability of supply during significant water
shortages that occur during multiyear droughts. To accomplish this, SJWC can use less groundwater in
certain areas or zones to achieve the overall balance which best meets SCVWD’s and SJWC’s operational
goals.
Normal, Single-Dry, and Multiple Dry Hydrologic Years
Table 5.3-21 presents 2035 projected supply and demand during normal, single-dry, and multiple-dry years.
These numbers were generated by multiplying the current and 2035 demands by the percentages of normal
water supply SJWC experienced during the 1977 single year and the 1987-1992 multi-year droughts.
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TABLE 5.3‐21 SJWC 2035 SUPPLY AND DEMAND ‐‐ NORMAL, SINGLE‐DRY, AND MULTIPLE‐DRY YEARS (ACRE FEET)
2035 Supply and Demand
Normal
Water Year
Single‐Dry
Water Year
Multiple‐Dry Water Years
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5
Supply Total 153,697 109,279 152,929 149,701 123,572 121,882 110,816
Demand Total 153,697 109,279 152,929 149,701 123,572 121,882 110,816
Difference 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Source: Table 15 (SJWC) of Water Supply Evaluation (Yarne & Associates), May 15, 2014.
If during a drought the SJWC should experience a shortage of supply, it will activate its current Water
Shortage Contingency Plan. As noted in the WSE (May 20, 2014) prepared for the City, “although there
appears to be shortages during droughts, in reality voluntary and involuntary water conservation greatly reduces demand.”
The SJWC foresees meeting all future demands.
SJWC has multiple sources of water which provide a high degree of supply reliability. For added reliability,
SJWC incorporates diesel fueled generators which will operate wells and pumps in the event of power
outages. SJWC also has an established well replacement program. The program identifies and replaces two
wells per year based on numerous criteria, including a well’s production and observed water quality
problems. The replacement of older wells and optimization of existing wells will allow SJWC to maintain its
groundwater supply reliability.
The WSE includes detailed calculations of water demand from Land Use Alternative B, based on the land use
in the SJWC (plus Cupertino Water) service area. As reported in the WSE, total projected water demand at
build out of Land Use Alternative B for the SJWC and leased Cupertino Water service areas is estimated to
be 357 afy without taking into account requirements for water conservation measures to be incorporated
into new development. If these measures are accounted for, Land Use Alternative B water demand in the
SJWC service area is 303 afy.
As previously noted, the total projected increase in the SJWC demand between 2015 and 2040 (25 years)
for a normal hydrologic year is 14,831 afy.53 The Land Use Alternative B demand at buildout represents 2
percent of this total SJWC demand.
Since the SJWC 2010 UWMP projected increased demand is based on general growth in its service area, it
is reasonable to assume that Land Use Alternative B demand is accounted for in the overall demand forecast
as it constitutes a small percentage.
SJWC currently owns rights to receive water from the following sources: 1) groundwater - from the Santa
Clara Valley Sub-basin; 2) imported surface water - from the SCVWD; and 3) local surface water - from Los
Gatos Creek and Local Watershed.
53 156,734 afy minus 141,903 afy equals14,831 afy; see Table 4.14-4 .
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Based on the foregoing reasons, there is sufficient SJWC water available to supply the demand projected for
Land Use Alternative B for all existing demand and other projected increases in water demand for the next
26 years for normal, one dry year and multiple dry year periods.
In summary, buildout of Land Use Alternative B would not result in insufficient SJWC water supplies under
normal year conditions. In addition, during single dry year and multiple dry years, with the proposed and
existing water conservation regulations and measures in place, buildout of Land Use Alternative B would
not result in a significant impact on SJWC water supply.
Combined Water Supply
In conclusion, compliance with General Plan policies and strategies, applicable regulations, which are listed
below, would further reduce potential impacts on water supplies for both retailers (SJWC and Cal Water).
Future development within the Project Study Area would include the latest technology in water efficient
plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems, as specified in the 2010 California Plumbing Code and the Cal
Water’s and SJWC’s water efficiency measures relevant to new residential and commercial development.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate water supplies
are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Land Use/Community Design Element, Policy 2-76,
Stevens Creek Park, would require the Santa Clara County Parks program to pursue the goal of connecting
upper and lower Stevens Creek Parks. The County parks budget should pursue acquisition to the extent
possible and emphasize passive park development in keeping with the pristine nature of the hillsides, and
work to retain the watershed and storage basin proper ties of Stevens Creek. Policy 2-77, Continuous Open
Space, would require the City to actively pursue inter-agency cooperation including with the SCVWD,
which can help Cupertino carry out its open space policies by continuing to cooperate with local
government to fund access and restoration projects. For example, SCVWD helped Cupertino prepare its
natural flood plain policy for Stevens Creek between Stevens Creek Boulevard and the Stevens Creek
reservoir, which has implications for ground water recharge and water quality. Policy 2-88, Park Design,
would require the City to design parks to utilize the natural features and topography of the site and to keep
long-term maintenance costs low. Strategy 1, Native Plants, would require the City to maximize the use of
native plants and minimize water use. Strategy 2, Creek Enhancement, would require the City to, where
possible, open and restore covered creeks and riparian habitat. Strategy 3, Demonstration Gardens, would
require the City to consider the creation of demonstration gardens in some parks where feasible as a method
of educating the public on sustainable landscaping design and techniques. Within the Environmental
Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles of Sustainability, would require the City to
incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s planning and development system in order to
improve the environment, reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet the needs of the present community
without compromising the needs of future generations. Policy 5-29, Coordination of Local Conservation
Policies with Region-wide Conservation Policies, directs the City to continue coordination with regional
water districts regarding water conservation efforts, including compliance with drought plans. Additionally,
Policy 6-19, Water Conservation and Demand Reduction Measures, would direct the City to proactively
reduce water use, consistent with State goals. Strategies 1 through 3 under this policy would, respectively,
direct the City to develop and Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP), comply with the State’s 20x20x20
Water Conservation Plan, and increase the use of recycled water where feasible. This coordination and
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-175
compliance with regional and State conservation programs and requirements would serve to reduce water
use and demand overall and especially during drought years, which would serve to ensure adequate water
supplies under implementation of Land Use Alternative B.
Buildout of Land Use Alternative B would not result in insufficient water supplies from either SJWC or Cal
Water under normal, single-dry, or multiple dry years, and new or expanded entitlements would not be
needed. Impacts from the implementation of Land Use Alternative B would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
The Water Conservation Act of 2009 (Senate Bill SB X7 7)
2010 California Plumbing Code that would require water conserving fixtures
Cupertino’s Landscaping Ordinance - Municipal Code Chapter 14.15
Cupertino’s Water Conservation Ordinance - Municipal Code Chapter 15.32
SJWC’s, Cal Water’s and SCVWD’s water supply and demand management strategies and water
shortage contingency plan identified in the UWMPs
City of Cupertino General Plan
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-2 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not require or result in the
construction of new water facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the
construction of which would cause significant environmental effects.
As discussed in Impact UTIL-1 above, the water demand associated with Land Use Alternative B would be
served with available and planned water supplies provided by Cal Water and SJWC.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate water supplies
are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Environmental Resources Element, Policy 5-26,
Recycled Water, would direct the City to explore opportunities for the use of recycled water, including the
potential expansion of an existing recycled water line from Sunnyvale to the Homestead Road area. This
development of this facility could cause significant environmental effects. Policy 7-4, New Development
Public Infrastructure Requirements, would require new development to provide or pay for adequate public
facilities to accommodate growth; this policy could therefore result in the construction of new water
facilities or the expansion of existing facilities to serve new development. Although creation of new
infrastructure or facilities associated with these policies could create significant environmental effects,
compliance with applicable regulations, as discussed below, as well as project-level environmental review
would serve to evaluate and mitigate potential adverse physical effects.
In addition, future development under Land Use Alternative B would be located within already-developed
urban areas and therefore, would connect to an existing water distribution system. Future development
would be required to pay “construction tax” fees as outlined in Section 4.14.1.1, Regulatory Framework, in
Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems, of this Draft EIR, allocated to service, system maintenance and
capital upgrades.
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In summary, in accordance with the General Plan policies listed above and under Impact UTIl-1, and
applicable regulations below, buildout of Land Use Alternative B would not result in water demands that
would require the construction of new water treatment facilities or the expansion of existing facilities.
Applicable Regulations
The Water Conservation Act of 2009 (Senate Bill SB X7 7)
2010 California Plumbing Code that would require water conserving fixtures
Cupertino’s Landscaping Ordinance - Municipal Code Chapter 14.15
Cupertino’s Water Conservation Ordinance - Municipal Code Chapter 15.32
SJWC’s, Cal Water’s and SCVWD’s water supply and demand management strategies and water
shortage contingency plan identified in the UWMPs
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-3 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than significant
cumulative impacts with respect to water supply.
This section analyzes potential impacts to water supply that could occur from Land Use Alternative B in
combination with other reasonably foreseeable projects in the surrounding area. The geographic scope of
this cumulative analysis is taken as the Cal Water and SJWC service areas. While Land Use Alternative B
would contribute to an increased cumulative demand for water supply, the increased demand would not
exceed the long-term supply under normal circumstances, as discussed above. Additionally, Cal Water,
SJWC and SCVWD UWMPs determine that the water supply will be sufficient to accommodate future
demand in the Cal Water and SJWC service areas through 2035, and by extension through 2040, under
normal circumstances. In the multiple dry years, with Cal Water, SJWC and SCVWD drought contingency
plans in place, any shortages would be managed through demand reductions and other measures such as
increased groundwater pumping. In addition, with SB X7 7 and the State, county, and local water
conservation ordinances in place, each jurisdiction would be required to conserve its water use through
establishing water efficiency measures. In addition, the General Plan includes policies and strategies that,
once adopted, would ensure adequate water supplies are available for the residents of Cupertino. Policy 5-
29, Coordination of Local Conservation Policies with Region-wide Conservation Policies, directs the City
to continue coordination with regional water districts regarding water conservation efforts, including
compliance with drought plans. This coordination and compliance would serve to reduce water use and
demand overall and especially during drought years. Additionally, Policy 6-19, Water Conservation and
Demand Reduction Measures, would direct the City to proactively reduce water use, consistent with State
goals. Strategies 1 through 3 under this policy would, respectively, direct the City to develop and Urban
Water Management Plan (UWMP), comply with the State’s 20x20x20 Water Conservation Plan, and
increase the use of recycled water where feasible. In addition, pursuant to SB 610 and SB 221, WSAs would
be prepared for large development projects prior to approval of each project to ensure adequate water
supply for new development.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
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Overall, cumulative water demands would neither exceed planned levels of supply nor require building new
water treatment facilities or expanding existing facilities beyond what is currently planned. In addition,
future development would be required to pay development fees (i.e. construction taxes), which would
offset the costs of system maintenance and capital upgrades to support the new development in the Cal
Water and SJWC service areas. Therefore, the cumulative impact would be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant
Wastewater
UTIL-4 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not exceed wastewater
treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control
Board.
San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant
The Cupertino Sanitary District (CSD) sewer collection system directs wastewater to the San Jose/Santa
Clara Water Pollution Control Plant (SJ/SCWPCP), a joint powers authority. The San Francisco RWQCB
established wastewater treatment requirements for the SJ/SCWPCP in an NPDES Permit (Order No.
R2-2009-0038), adopted April 8, 2009 and effective June 1, 2009.54 The NPDES Order sets out a
framework for compliance and enforcement applicable to operation of the SJ/SCWPCP and its effluent, as
well as those contributing influent to the SJ/SCWPCP. This NPDES Order currently allows dry weather
discharges of up to 167 million gallons per day (mgd) with full tertiary treatment, and wet weather
discharges of up to 271 mgd with full tertiary treatment.
As the dischargers named in the NPDES Permit, the City of San Jose and the City of Santa Clara implement
and enforce pretreatment programs for effluent discharged into Artesian Slough, tributary to Coyote Creek
and South San Francisco Bay. The dischargers conduct programs to educate residents, professionals, and
business owners about the proper use of their sewer and drainage systems in order to help preserve their
own facilities and to help protect the environment.
The CSD is one of six additional satellite collection systems that discharge into the SJ/SCWPCP. Each
satellite collection system is responsible for an ongoing program of maintenance and capital improvements
for sewer lines and pump stations within its respective jurisdiction in order to ensure adequate capacity and
reliability of the collection system. The responsibilities include managing overflows, controlling Infiltration
and Inflow (I&I) and implementing collection system maintenance.
The SJ/SCWPCP, serving as the Discharger, and has an approved pretreatment program, which include
approved local limits, as required by prior permits. The previous permit required the Discharger to evaluate
its local limits –such as those established by the CSD -- to ensure compliance with updated effluent limits.
These local limits are approved as part of the pretreatment program required by this permit. The
54 San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP. http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/
board_info/agendas/2009/april/SJSC_FinalOrder%20-%204-09.pdf.
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SJ/SCWPCP is required to monitor the permitted discharges in order to evaluate compliance with permit
conditions.
With continued compliance with applicable regulations listed below, projected wastewater generated from
potential future development under Land Use Alternative B would not exceed the wastewater treatment
requirements or capacity of the SJ/SCWPCP. Therefore, the wastewater treatment requirements of the San
Francisco RWQCB would not be exceeded due to buildout of Land Use Alternative B, resulting in a less-
than-significant impact.
City of Sunnyvale Water Pollution Control Plant
The Sunnyvale sewer collection system, which serves a small area of the Project Component locations along
Stevens Creek Boulevard, directs wastewater to the Sunnyvale Water Pollution Control Plant (SWPCP). The
San Francisco RWQCB established wastewater treatment requirements for the SWPCP in an NPDES
Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061), adopted August 12, 2009 and effective October 1, 2009. Discharge
Prohibition III.C of the permit states the average dry weather effluent flow shall not exceed 29.5 mgd.
Exceeding the SWPCP’s average dry weather flow design capacity (29.5 mgd) may result in lowering the
reliability of achieving compliance with water quality requirements. The prohibition against exceeding
design capacity is meant to ensure effective wastewater treatment by limiting flows to the SWPCP’s design
treatment capability.
Treated wastewater from the SWPCP flows into Moffett Channel, which is a tributary to the Guadalupe
Slough and the South San Francisco Bay. The SWPCP has an average dry weather flow design capacity of
29.5 mgd and a 40 mgd peak wet weather flow capacity. The average dry weather flow discharged to Moffett
Channel during the months of June, July, August, and September in 2006-2008 was 9.4 mgd. The average
flow discharged to Moffett Chanel was 11.8 mgd during 2006 - 2008, the average wet weather flow
(October-May) discharged to Moffett Chanel was 13.1 mgd during 2006 – 2008, and the maximum daily
effluent flow rate was 35 mgd during 2006 -200855.
All public entities that own or operate sanitary sewer systems greater than one mile in length – including
the CSD and the SJ/SCWPCP -- that collect and/or convey untreated or partially treated wastewater to a
publicly owned treatment facility in the State of California are required to comply with the terms of State
Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Order. No. 2006-0003-DWQ, as amended by Order No. WQ
2008-0002-EXEC. These public entities are considered “enrollees” of the statewide permit, as amended.
One purpose of the statewide SWRCB permit is to prevent sewer system overflows (SSOs). Major causes of
SSOs include: grease blockages, root blockages, sewer line flood damage, manhole structure failures,
vandalism, pump station mechanical failures, power outages, excessive storm or ground water
inflow/infiltration, debris blockages, sanitary sewer system age and construction material failures, lack of
proper operation and maintenance, insufficient capacity and contractor-caused damages. Many SSOs are
preventable with adequate and appropriate facilities, source control measures and operation and
55 San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061 )for City of Sunnyvale WPCP.
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb2/board_decisions/adopted_orders/2009/R2-2009-0061.pdf.
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
PLACEWORKS 5.3-179
maintenance of the sanitary sewer system. To facilitate proper management of sanitary sewer systems, each
Enrollee must develop and implement a system-specific Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP).
With continued compliance with applicable regulations listed below, projected wastewater generated from
potential future development under Land Use Alternative B would not exceed the wastewater treatment
requirements or capacity of the SWPCP. Therefore, the wastewater treatment requirements of the San
Francisco RWQCB would not be exceeded due to buildout of Land Use Alternative B, resulting in a less-
than-significant impact.
Applicable Regulations
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061) for SWPCP
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management Plan
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-5 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not require or result in the
construction of new wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing
facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental
effects.
Buildout of Land Use Alternative B would have a significant impact if it would result in the construction of
new wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which would have
a significant effect on the environment. As discussed above in Impact UTIL-4 above and Impact UTIL-6
below, future demands from Land Use Alternative B would not exceed the design or permitted capacity of
the wastewater treatment plants serving the Project Study Area (i.e. SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP). The
potential impacts to the collection system would be addressed through applicable General Plan policies and
measures as identified in Impact UTIL-6 below. In addition, the CSD’s requirement for new projects to
prepare a hydraulic model and, if necessary, improve collection system capacity would ensure that demands
from individual projects in the Project Study Area would not significantly impact the wastewater collection
service. The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate
wastewater collection and treatment facilities are available for the residents of Cupertino. Policy 5-26,
Recycled Water, would direct the City to continue to explore opportunities for the use of recycled water,
including the potential expansion of an existing recycled water line from Sunnyvale to the Homestead Road
area. Policy 5-22, Storm Drainage Management and Conformance with Watershed-Based Planning, would
direct the City to encourage development projects to follow watershed-based planning and zoning by
examining the project in the context of the entire watershed area. Strategy 1, Storm Drainage Master Plan,
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LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
5.3-180 JUNE 18,2014
would direct the City to develop and maintain a Storm Drainage Master Plan, which would result in the
creation of new wastewater treatment facilities or conveyance systems. Additionally, Policy 7-4, New
Development Public Infrastructure Requirements, would require new development to provide or pay for
adequate public facilities to accommodate growth; this policy could therefore result in the construction of
new wastewater facilities or the expansion of existing facilities to serve new development. The development
of treatment facilities or conveyance systems associated with recycled water, wastewater, and/or improved
stormwater systems could cause significant environmental effects; however, compliance with applicable
regulations, as discussed below, and project-level environmental review would serve to evaluate and mitigate
potential adverse physical effects. As a result, the impact would be less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP
San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0061) for SWPCP
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management Plan
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-6 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would result in a determination by
the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that
it does not have adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in
addition to the provider’s existing commitments.
Buildout of Land Use Alternative B would have a significant impact if future projected demand exceeds the
wastewater service capacity of the SJ/SCWPCP or SWPCP, or the CSD or City of Sunnyvale collection
systems.
Collection Systems
Cupertino Sanitary District
Specific capacity deficiencies were identified in the current Cupertino General Plan update, including sewer
lines serving the City Center area, and lines on Stelling Road and Foothill Boulevard. City Center is the
general area at the southeast quadrant of the intersection of De Anza Blvd and Stevens Creek Blvd. Trunk
lines serving City Center identified as flowing either at or above capacity include those in Stevens Creek
Boulevard between Randy Lane and Wolfe Road, and those in Wolfe Road south of I-280 and between
Pruneridge Avenue and I-280. An additional trunk line, consisting of 10-inch to 18-inch sewer lines located
in Randy Lane, Wheaton Drive, Denison Avenue and Norwich Avenue, was also identified as operating at or
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above capacity in a 2000 flow study performed as part of the City Center development.. Capacity
improvements have been made to the lines on Wolfe Road. The other lines identified as providing
insufficient capacity for existing flows have not been upgraded to date. New developments that substantially
increase wastewater capacity, including projects potentially associated with Land Use Alternative B buildout,
could result in wastewater flows that exceed the collection system capacity. To address this possibility, the
CSD would require developers of substantial projects to demonstrate that adequate capacity exists, or to
identify the necessary mitigations. The CSD defines substantial projects as those projected to generate
substantial increases in wastewater. In these situations, the developer is required to prepare a hydraulic
model of the pipe system between the project and the downstream limits of CSD facilities. To demonstrate
capacity is available, the model must show that existing pipes flow less than two-thirds full when the new
development wastewater flow is added to existing flows. In the event that adequate capacity is not available,
improvements would need to be identified and constructed to provide a system that flows at less than two-
thirds full. The requirement to prepare a hydraulic model and, if necessary, improve capacity is a standard
condition of the CSD required for new development, independent of Land Use Alternative B. As a result,
impacts on the CSD collection system would be less than significant.
Furthermore, the CSD is currently performing a capacity analysis of their entire collection system.
Improvements required to mitigate system deficiencies as well as to accommodate future development will
be identified and added to their Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Capacity fees will then be developed
to fund the CIP. New development that increases wastewater transmission and treatment demand would be
required to contribute towards system capacity enhancement improvements through payment of the
capacity fee. In this manner, CSD would be responsible for upgrading their system rather than placing the
responsibility on the developers of the largest wastewater generators, as is currently the case. If and when
this fee is developed and implemented, it will create a more reliable and equitable mitigation for new
development.
City of Sunnyvale
Buildout of the portion of the Heart of the City Special Area east of Finch Avenue and south of Stevens
Creek Boulevard could result in wastewater flows to the City of Sunnyvale that exceed the downstream pipe
capacity if large office developments are allowed. Trunk service mains would require capacity enhancing
improvements if large office users are allowed in the Cupertino service area.
Development in this area is guided by the Heart of the City Specific Plan. This Specific Plan does allow office
uses in the entire corridor with appropriate mitigation measures. However, development adjacent to the
single family residences on the east side along Stevens Creek Boulevard would not be large office campuses
due to the small size of the properties and the need to maintain compatibility with adjoining single-family
residential uses. Offices allowed in this area would be smaller, like attorney’s offices or small office spaces .
Modification of the Heart of the City Specific Plan to allow large office space in the area would require
further environmental review, which would address sanitary sewer capacity issues, as well as neighborhood
compatibility. Without modification of the Heart of the City Specific Plan, the City of Sunnyvale could
continue to provide system capacity for future growth in its Cupertino service area. As a result, impacts on
the City of Sunnyvale collection system would be less than significant.
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Treatment Systems
San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant
The CSD calculated wastewater flow associated with the 2020 General Plan development allocations,
together with existing flows at the time the General Plan was approved, to be 7.2 mgd. The projected
additional wastewater generated by buildout of Land Use Alternative B, over and above the current General
Plan flows, are calculated to be less than 0.84 mgd. Adding the Land Use Alternative B buildout flows to the
current General Plan flow (7.2 mgd) results in a total wastewater generation of less than 8.04 mgd. The
total contractual treatment allocation with the SJ/SCWPCP is 7.8 mgd. Thus, Land Use Alternative B
would exceed the current contractually available treatment capacity by less than 0.24 mgd. The following
discussion identifies alternatives to increase treatment capacity, analyses to reduce projected treatment
requirements, and a tracking mechanism to allow development to occur up to such time as the contractual
treatment threshold is reached, at which time a development moratorium would be implemented.
Increase Treatment Capacity
Both the SJ/SCWPCP and City of Sunnyvale treatment plants have excess capacity, and would be able to
treat wastewater produced by development under the Land Use Alternative B. CSD would need to enter
into an agreement with either or both of these agencies to provide additional treatment capacity.
Implementation of such an agreement would allow the Project to proceed without the need for any physical
expansion of existing facilities.
CSD, with assistance from the City of Cupertino, could potentially purchase additional capacity from any
one, or combination of the six other agencies with contractual rights to direct flow to the SJ/SC WPCP.
These agencies include Cities of San Jose, Santa Clara, and Milpitas, West Valley Sanitation District,
Sanitation District # 2 – 3, and the Burbank Sanitary District. No discussions have yet taken place with any
of these agencies to determine the viability of this approach.
There is no contractual limit on the amount of wastewater Cupertino can send to Sunnyvale, and the
SWPCP has capacity available to treat the Project flow. The transmission pipes between Cupertino and the
SWPCP, however, are undersized to convey the needed flow. Upsizing the transmission lines would be
required if additional flow were to be directed to the SWPCP.
Generation Rates
In addition, as explained above, flows have decreased over time: in 2000 the flows were 131 mgd and flows
in 2010 were less than 110 mgd.56 The SJ/SCWPCP currently treats 105 mgd. The SJ/SCWPCP Master
Plan sets a future capacity of 450 mgd. Projections of future wastewater treatment demands are based on
generation rates provided by CSD. While the rates used for residential development are mandated by the
SJ/SC WCPC contract with CSD, the generation rates for office, commercial and hotel uses are subject to
discretion. CSD believes the rates used are conservative, but hasn’t performed the analysis needed to
56 San Francisco RWQCB NPDES Permit (Order No. R2-2009-0038) for SJ/SCWPCP. http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/
rwqcb2/board_info/agendas/2009/april/SJSC_FinalOrder%20-%204-09.pdf.
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determine how conservative they may be. Studies could be performed in the future to identify realistic
generation rates. This could reduce the amount of additional treatment capacity required for the buildout of
the Land Use Alternative B. Over the 26-year Project buildout time frame, it is expected that
implementation of current green building standards will result in reduced wastewater treatment demands.
As described above in the Section 4.14.1.1, Regulatory Setting, Municipal Code Chapter 16.58 requires
that buildings larger than 50,000 square feet to be LEED Certified and buildings from 25,000 to 50,000
square feet to be LEED Silver certified. The wastewater generation rates used by CSD in projecting Project
impacts do not consider the green technology that will be implemented over the course of Project buildout.
The City is considering the preparation of a study to determine the actual building wastewater generation
for both standard and green/LEED buildings pursuant to Chapter 16.58. The results of such a study would
provide the CSD a more realistic generation rate to apply to the qualifying buildings that are within the CSD
jurisdiction. This would allow projections to be updated to determine a realistic development allocation that
would not exceed the contractual treatment threshold with SJ/SCWPCP.
Monitoring
The CSD projects the remaining contractual treatment capacity at the SJ/SCWPCP to be 0.6 mgd (7.8 mgd
minus 7.2 mgd) upon buildout of the Land Use Alternative B. That projection includes the remaining
development allocation, which is also part of the Land Use Alternative B. The remaining development
allocation is projected to generate 0.72 mgd, and the remaining contractual treatment capacity for the
Alternative is 1.32 mgd (0.6 mgd plus 0.72 mgd). Based on the conservative wastewater generation rates
used by CSD, over half the proposed development allocation under the Land Use Alternative B could be
built before exceeding the contractual treatment threshold with SJ/SCWPCP. A development monitoring
system could be implemented to track the projected wastewater generation as projects are approved.
Nevertheless, Land Use Alternative B exceeds the current contractually available treatment capacity at
SJ/SCWPCP by less than 0.24 mgd. As a result, unless and until additional contractual capacity is achieved,
impacts on the contractual treatment capacity at SJ/SCWPCP would be significant.
City of Sunnyvale
The SWPCP has a capacity of 29.5 mgd and is currently operating at a daily treatment rate of about 15 mgd.
The projected wastewater generation for the entire Hear t of the City Special Area is 0.84 mgd. The portion
of this Special Area served by the SWPCP is 4-percent of the total surface area of the Special Area. Assuming
a uniform use distribution across the entire Special Area, the wastewater flow to the SWPCP would be 0.03
mgd. The projected increase amounts to 0.23-percent of the current daily treatment flow of 15 mgd, and
0.11 percent of the SWPCP’s dry weather permitted capacity. Thus, the projected increase in wastewater is
within the system’s capacity and impacts on the SWPCP would be less than significant.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure adequate wastewater
collection and treatment facilities are available for the residents of Cupertino. Within the Public Utilities,
Infrastructure, and Services Element, Policy 7-2, Sunnyvale Treatment Plant, would require the City to
consider the impacts on the Sunnyvale sanitary sewer system if significant office uses are proposed in the
east Stevens Creek Boulevard area. Policy 7-3, Sewer Tributary Lines, would require the City to recognize
that new high discharge users in the Vallco area and the Stevens Creek Boulevard and Blaney Avenue areas
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will require private developers to pay for the upgrading of tributary lines. Strategy 1, Cost Estimates, would
require the City to develop preliminary cost estimates for the upgrading of the sewer tributary lines to
discuss with prospective developers.
While the current General Plan recognizes existing system deficiencies in both the CSD and City of
Sunnyvale wastewater service areas and includes the following policies to address this issue, Land Use
Alternative B exceeds the current contractually available treatment capacity at SJ/SCWPCP by 0.24 mgd
and impacts would be significant.
Applicable Regulations
SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ for Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for
Sanitary Sewer Systems
SWRCB Order No. WQ 2008-0002-EXEC revising SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
Chapter 15.20 of the City’s Municipal Code establishing standards for individual onsite sewage disposal
systems consistent with RWQCB standards.
Cupertino Sanitary District Operations Code
Cupertino Sanitary District Sewer System Management
Mitigation Measure
The following mitigation measures are recommended to ensure that CSD has adequate capacity to serve the
Project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments:
Mitigation Measure UTIL-6a: The City shall work with the Cupertino Sanitary District to increase
the available citywide treatment and transmission capacity to 8.65 million gallons per day, or to a lesser
threshold if studies justifying reduced wastewater generation rates are approved by CSD as described in
Mitigation Measure UTIL-6c.
Mitigation Measure UTIL-6b: The City shall work to establish a system in which a development
monitoring and tracking system to tabulate cumulative increases in projected wastewater generation
from approved projects for comparison to the Cupertino Sanitary District’s treatment capacity
threshold with San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant is prepared and implemented. If it is
anticipated that with approval of a development project the actual system discharge would exceed the
contractual treatment threshold, no building permits for such project shall be issued prior to increasing
the available citywide contractual treatment and transmission capacity as described in Mitigation
Measure UTIL-6a.
Mitigation Measure UTIL-6c: The City shall work with the Cupertino Sanitary District to prepare a
study to determine a more current estimate of the wastewater generation rates that reflect the actual
development to be constructed as part of Project implementation. The study could include determining
how the green/LEED certified buildings in the City reduce wastewater demands.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
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UTIL-7 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in less than significant
cumulative impacts with respect to wastewater.
This section analyzes potential impacts related to wastewater treatment that could occur from Land Use
Alternative B in combination with reasonably foreseeable growth within the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP
service areas.
Buildout of Land Use Alternative B would generate a minor increase in the volume of wastewater delivered
for treatment at SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP. This increase represents less than 1 percent of the available
treatment capacity at the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP, and it would occur incrementally over a period of 26
years. Both the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP serving the Project Study Area currently use less than their design
and permitted wastewater treatment capacity. Cumulative wastewater treatment demand over the Land Use
Alternative B buildout period – based on the recent trends of diminishing wastewater treatment demand
and the generally projected population growth in the service areas – is far below the excess capacity of the
SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP. Because the cumulative demand would not substantially impact the existing or
planned capacity of the wastewater treatment systems, which have sufficient capacity for wastewater that
would be produced by the Land Use Alternative B, the construction of new wastewater treatment facilities
would not be necessary.
Future development would also be required to comply with all applicable regulations and ordinances
protecting wastewater treatment services as described in Section 4.14.2.1, Environmental Setting, in
Chapter 4.14, Utilities and Service Systems.
Wastewater from cumulative projects would be treated according to the wastewater treatment requirements
documented in the respective NPDES permits for the SJ/SCWPCP and SWPCP, and enforced by the San
Francisco RWQCB. Therefore, with implementation of Mitigation Measure UTIL-6, cumulative
development combined with Land Use Alternative B would not exceed wastewater treatment requirements,
and cumulative impacts to sanitary wastewater service would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
Solid Waste
UTIL-8 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would not be served by a
landfill(s) with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate this
Alternative’s solid waste disposal needs.
Existing and potential development under Land Use Alternative B would not be served by landfill sites with
sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the city’s solid waste disposal needs, based on existing
contractual agreements. As described in Section 4.14.3.1, Environmental Setting, in Chapter 4.14, Utilities
and Service Systems, of this Draft EIR, 99 percent of all solid waste generated in Cupertino – which
includes City [Recology] hauled waste, as well as self-hauled waste from private projects within the City – is
disposed at four different landfill facilities. One hundred (100) percent of City [Recology] hauled waste –
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which accounts for 92 percent of the total waste volume – goes to one landfill (Newby Island).Table 5.3-22
compares the remaining capacity, maximum daily and annual capacity, and estimated closure date for each of
the four landfills.
TABLE 5.3‐22 LANDFILLS EXISTING CAPACITY AND ESTIMATED CLOSURE DATE
Landfill Facility
Remaining Capacity (cubic
yard)
Daily Capacity
(tons/day)
Estimated
Closure Date
Newby Island Landfill
(as of 10/16/2006) 18,274,953 4,000 6/1/2025a
Guadalupe Sanitary Landfill
(as of 1/1/2011) 11,055,758 1,300 1/1/2048
Monterey Peninsula Landfill
(as of 12/31/2004)
48,560,000
3,500 2/28/2107
Altamont Landfill
(as of 8/22/2005)
45,720,000
11,500 1/1/2025
a. The agreement between the Newby Island Landfill and the City of Cupertino ends in 2023.
Source: CalRecycle, 2014.
In 2012, the city of Cupertino’s actual disposal rate for residents was 2.6 pounds per person per day (PPD)
with the target of 4.3 PPD. For employees, the disposal rate was 4.3 PPD with the target rate of 8.1 PPD.57
The City of Cupertino’s disposal rates for both residents and employees have been below target rates and
steadily decreasing since 2007.58
The per capita disposal rate target is also known as “the 50 percent equivalent per capita disposal target.” It is
the amount of disposal Cupertino would have had during the CalRecycle-designated base period (2003 –
2006) if it had been exactly at a 50 percent diversion rate. It is calculated by CalRecycle using the average
base period per capita generation for Cupertino (in pounds), then dividing this generation average in half to
determine the 50 percent equivalent per capita disposal target. The target is an indicator for comparison
with that jurisdiction’s annual per capita per day disposal rate beginning with the 2007 program year.59
As shown on Table 5.3-23, at 2040 buildout of Land Use Alternative B, it is anticipated that the city will
generate solid waste at a rate of 111,191 tons/year, which equates to approximately 305 tons/day. The
anticipated amount of solid waste would have a less-than-significant impact with regard to daily per capita
disposal targets, but two of four currently-used landfill facilities that receive the majority of the city’s solid
waste are likely to reach their permitted maximum capacities by 2040 and will no longer be available. The
Newby Island Landfill facility will reach its capacity in 2025 (the City’s agreement with the facility ends
earlier, in 2023), and Altamont Landfill also is anticipated to reach its capacity in 2025, as shown in the Table
5.3-22. Since the Newby Island Landfill facility currently accepts 92 percent of the solid waste generated by
Cupertino, the City must find an alternative to this landfill when it closes in approximately ten years.
57 CalRecycle, “Jurisdiction per Capita Disposal Trends: Cupertino,” http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/, accessed on May 15, 2014.
58 CalRecycle, “Jurisdiction per Capita Disposal Trends: Cupertino,” http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/, accessed on May 15, 2014.
59 CalRecycle, Understanding SB 1016 Solid Waste Per Capita Disposal Measurement Act,
www.calrecycle.ca.gov/lgcentral/goalmeasure/Tools/Presentation.ppt, accessed June 2, 2014.
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TABLE 5.3‐23 PROJECTED RESIDENTS, EMPLOYMENT, AND WASTE GENERATION AT 2040 BUILDOUT – LAND USE
ALTERNATIVE B
2012a Existing 2040 Buildout
Residents 59,022 58,302 68,051
Employment 35,438 27,387 39,092
Residential Disposal Rate Target (pounds/person/day) 4.3 4.3 4.3
Employee Disposal Rate Target (pounds/person/day) 8.1 8.1 8.1
Maximum Disposal (tons/year) 98,704 86,237 111,191
Actual Disposal (tons/year) 27,652 ‐ ‐
a. The latest data on the actual disposal information was from 2012.
Source: CalRecycle, 2014.
Anticipated rates of solid waste disposal would have a less-than-significant impact in regard to target disposal
rates, and the City would continue its current recycling ordinances and zero-waste policies. Nevertheless,
the 2023 termination of the agreement between the Newby Island Landfill facility, as well as the facility’s
estimated closure date in 2025 would result in insufficient solid waste disposal capacity at buildout of Land
Use Alternative B, resulting in a significant impact.
Mitigation Measure
The following mitigation measure is recommended to minimize the potential for implementation of Land
Use Alternative B to not be served by a landfill(s) with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate Land
Use Alternative B’s solid waste disposal needs:
Mitigation Measure UTIL-8: The City shall continue its current recycling ordinances and zero-
waste policies in an effort to further increase its diversion rate and lower its per capita disposal rate. In
addition, the City shall monitor solid waste generation volumes in relation to capacities at receiving
landfill sites to ensure that sufficient capacity exists to accommodate future growth. The City shall seek
new landfill sites to replace the Altamont and Newby Island landfills, at such time that these landfills are
closed.
Implementation of Mitigation Measure UTIL-8 would serve to ensure sufficient capacity of landfill is
available for future development under Land Use Alternative B. In addition, the trend of lower per capita
solid waste volumes would continue to reduce the amount of waste disposed at landfills overall, which may
delay the estimated closure date of landfill sites, including the Newby Island Landfill facility.
With incorporation of the above Mitigation Measure UTIL-8, related to the potential for implementation of
Land Use Alternative B to not be served by a landfill(s) with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate
Land Use Alternative B’s solid waste disposal needs, impacts would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
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UTIL-9 Land Use Alternative B would not be out of compliance with federal, State,
and local statues and regulations related to solid waste.
As discussed in Section 4.14.3 of this Draft EIR, the City has complied with State requirements to reduce
the volume of solid waste through recycling and reuse of solid waste. The City’s per capita disposal rate is
below the target rate established by CalRecycle. Cupertino adopted a Source Reduction and Recycling
Element (SRRE) and a Household Hazardous Waste Element (HHWE) in compliance with the California
Integrated Waste Management Act. The City has gone beyond the SRRE by implementing several programs,
including the City’s and Recology’s organics or food waste collection program and Environmental Recycling
Day events offered to residents 3 times per year by Recology. Implementation of the referenced strategies,
plans, and programs, as well as the Climate Action Plan that launched in May 2014, will enable the city to
meet the 75 percent of solid waste by the year 2020. These programs will be sufficient to ensure that future
development in Cupertino would not compromise the ability to meet or perform better than the State
mandated target.
Construction and demolition associated with future development under Land Use Alternative B would
generate significant solid waste. At least 60 percent of this waste, however, would be expected to be
diverted from landfill disposal by recycling in accordance with the City’s construction debris ordinance.
Therefore, future development would comply with applicable statutes and regulations and the impact would
be less than significant.
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
UTIL-10 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant cumulative
impacts with respect to solid waste.
The buildout of Land Use Alternative B will increase the quantity of solid waste for disposal. Although AB
939 established a goal for all California cities to provide at least 15 years of ongoing landfill capacity, growth
from other cities in the region may exceed that which was taken into account when calculating landfill
capacity. Also, because the Newby Island Landfill facility, which takes approximately 92 percent of the City's
solid waste, is expected to close in 2025, Cupertino may eventually experience insufficient landfill capacity
to accommodate existing or increased population and employment levels.
As shown in the Chapter 4.11, Population and Housing, of this Draft EIR, projected growth in Cupertino
under Land Use Alternative B is greater than that anticipated by regional projections. Although the 2040
buildout of Land Use Alternative B would add 3,649 fewer residents than ABAG’s 2040 projection for
Cupertino, the 2040 buildout employment levels and housing units would be above regional projections.
The Table 5.3-24 compares the 2040 buildout of Land Use Alternative B and the regional growth scenario.
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TABLE 5.3‐24 BUILDOUT AND REGIONAL GROWTH COMPARISON – LAND USE ALTERNATIVE B
ABAG Projection 2040 Buildout Difference
Residents 71,700 68,051 ‐3,649
Housing Units 24,180 24,715 535
Employment 33,260 39,092 5,832
Source: Association of Bay Area Governments, Plan Bay Area, Projections 2013, Subregional Study Area Table, Santa Clara
County; PlaceWorks, 2014.
Although implementation of existing waste reduction programs and diversion requirements discussed above
would reduce the potential for exceeding existing capacities of landfills, the potential lack of landfill capacity
for disposal of solid waste would have a significant impact. However, with incorporation of the Mitigation
Measure UTIL-8, this impact related to the potential for Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past,
present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, to result in significant cumulative impacts with respect to solid
waste would be less than significant.
Significance With Mitigation: Less than significant.
Energy Conservation
UTIL-11 Implementation of Land Use Alternative B, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would not result in a substantial increase
in natural gas and electrical service demands, and would not require new
energy supply facilities and distribution infrastructure or capacity enhancing
alterations to existing facilities.
Land Use Alternative B, upon buildout, will result in 2,540,231 square feet of additional office space,
1,343,679 square feet of additional commercial space, 839 additional hotel rooms, and 3,316 additional
housing units. The proposed increase in development would result in a long-term increase in energy
demand, associated primarily with the operation of lighting and space heating/cooling in the added building
space. In addition, construction activities associated with development require the use of energy (e.g.
electricity and fuel) for various purposes such as the operation of construction equipment and tools, as well
as excavation, grading, demolition, and vehicle travel.
Future new development would be constructed using energy efficient modern building materials and
construction practices. The new buildings also would use new modern appliances and equipment, and would
comply with the current CALGreen Building Code, which would require the use of recycled construction
materials, environmentally sustainable building materials, building designs that reduce the amount of energy
used in building heating and cooling systems as compared to conventionally built structures, and landscaping
that incorporates water efficient irrigation systems.
The General Plan includes policies and strategies that, once adopted, would ensure energy conservation is
practiced in Cupertino. Within the Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element, Policy 5-1, Principles
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of Sustainability, would require the City to incorporate the principles of sustainability into Cupertino’s
planning and development system in order to improve the environment, reduce greenhouse gas emission
and meet the needs of the present community without compromising the needs of future generations. Policy
5-3, Conservation and Efficient Use of Energy Resources, would require the City to encourage the
maximum feasible conservation and efficient use of electrical power and natural gas resources for new and
existing residences, businesses, industrial and public uses. Strategy 1, Alternate Energy Sources, would
require the City to continue to ensure the ease of access to, and use of, solar energy and other alternate,
renewable energy resources for all new and significantly renovated private and public buildings through
effective policies, programs and incentives. Strategy 2, Comprehensive Energy Management Plan, would
require the City to prepare and implement a comprehensive energy management plan for all applicable
public facilities and equipment, to achieve the energy goals established in the City’s municipal Climate
Action Plan, and to embed this plan into the City’s Environmentally Preferable Procurement Policy to
ensure measures are achieved through all future procurement and construction practices. Strategy 4, Energy
Efficient Replacements, would require the City to continue to use life cycle cost analysis, to identify City
assets for replacement with more energy efficient technologies. Strategy 5, Incentive Program, would
require the City to support incentive programs that include such items as reduced permit fees for building
projects that exceed the City’s Green Building Ordinance and CalGreen, continue to promote other
incentives from the state, County and Federal Governments for improving energy efficiency and expanding
renewable energy installations by posting information regarding incentive, rebate and tax credit programs
on the City’s web site. Strategy 6, Solar Access Standards, would require the City to continue to ensure
compliance with the State of California Subdivision Map Act solar access standards in order to maximize
natural heating and cooling opportunities for future residences and businesses, and to encourage the
inclusion of additional shade trees and landscaping for energy efficiency. Strategy 8, Energy Cogeneration
Systems, would require the City to encourage the use of energy cogeneration systems through the provision
of an awareness program targeting the larger commercial and industrial users and public facilities. Strategy
9, Regulation of Building Design, would require the City to ensure designers, developers, applicants and
builders meet the City’s Green Building Ordinance and CalGreen, and encourage architects, building
designers and contractors to exceed these requirements for new projects through the provision of
incentives, to encourage either passive solar heating and/or dark plaster interior with a cover for swimming
pools, cabanas and other related accessory uses where solar access is available, to encourage the use of
renewable energy sources where feasible, and continue to offer energy audits and/or subvention programs
that also advance community adoption of alternative energy technologies. Strategy 10, Use of Discretionary
Development Permits (Use Permits), would require the City to require, as conditions of approval for new
and renovated projects, the provision of energy conservation/efficiency applications, aligned with the City’s
Green Building Ordinance and CalGreen. Strategy 11, Energy Efficient Transportation Modes, would
require the City to continue to encourage fuel-efficient transportation modes such as “clean” multi-modal
public transit, car and vanpooling, flexible work hours, safe routes to schools, and pedestrian and bicycle
paths through community education and training, infrastructure investment, and financial incentives,
including commuter benefits programs. Policy 5-4, Green Building Design, would require the City to set
standards for the design and construction of energy and resource conserving/efficient buildings (Green
Building Design). Strategy 1, “Green Building” Program, would require the City to periodically review and
revise the City’s Green Building Ordinance to ensure alignment with state CalGreen requirements for all
major private and public projects that ensure reduction in energy and water use for new development
through site selection and building design. Strategy 2, Building Energy Audits, would require the City to
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continue to offer and leverage regional partners’ programs to conduct building energy assessments for
homes, commercial, industrial and city facilities, and recommend improvements that lead to energy and
cost savings opportunities for participants.
With the implementation of these General Plan Policies and the CALGreen Building Code, significant
energy conservation and savings would be realized in future new development. Even with the energy saving
practices in place, it is possible that new electrical switches and/or transformers might be required to
handle additional loads. However, potential environmental impacts from possible new electrical
switches/transformers are not anticipated to be significant and, if necessary, would be addressed in project-
specific reviews. In addition, buildout of Land Use Alternative B would not significantly increase energy
demands in the context of the 70,000 square mile PG&E service territory for electricity and natural gas
generation, transmission and distribution. As a result, new energy supply facilities and distribution
infrastructure or capacity enhancing alterations to existing facilities would not be required. Therefore, with
consideration of the applicable regulations listed below, impacts related to energy conservation would be
less than significant.
Applicable Regulations
Federal Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007
Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005
California Building Code (Title 24, CCR)
California 2006 Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20, CCR Sections 1601 through 1608)
Governor’s Green Building Executive Order (S-20-04)
City of Cupertino General Plan, Environmental Resources/Sustainability Element
City of Cupertino Municipal Code, Chapter 16.58, Green Building Standards
Significance Without Mitigation: Less than significant.
5.3.8 RELATIONSHIP OF THE ALTERNATIVE TO THE OBJECTIVES
As discussed in Section 3.5, Project Objectives, of Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, the
primary purpose of the proposed Project is to: 1) replenish, re-allocate, and increase citywide office,
commercial, hotel, and residential development allocations in order to plan for anticipated future growth
while, sustaining the community’s character, goals, and objectives; 2) consolidate development requests by
several property owners for amendments to the General Plan, by reviewing seven Study Areas; and 3)
provide a full range of housing to meet the needs of all segments of the city’s population.
The City has also drafted a 2040 Community Vision and Guiding Principles as part of the overall Project,
which builds upon the framework of the current General Plan’s vision, goals, and guiding principles, and
reflects the community’s desires for Cupertino’s future. The proposed Project is based on the vision for the
city 1) to be a balanced community with: quiet and attractive residential neighborhoods; exemplary parks
and schools; accessible open space areas, hillsides, and creeks; and a vibrant, mixed-use “Heart of the City;”
and 2) to be safe, friendly, healthy, connected, walkable, bikeable, and inclusive for all residents and
workers, with ample places and opportunities for people to interact, recreate, innovate and collaborate. This
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vision statement is included in the proposed General Plan and outlines the objectives of the proposed
Project.
Under Land Use Alternative B, the development allocation would be replenished for office, commercial,
hotel, and residential, as shown in Table 5.3-1. Implementation of Land Use Alternative B would
accommodate the RHNA for the 2014–2022 planning period to allow the city to meet its fair share housing
obligation of 1,064 units. Implementation of this Alternative would meet the Project Objectives; however, it
would result in less replenishment of development allocation for office, commercial, hotel, and residential
unit reallocation. Therefore, while implementation of this Alternative would not result in the greatest
amount of replenishment of development allocations, it does generally meet all of the project objectives.
PLACEWORKS 6-1
6. CEQA-Required Assessment Conclusions
This chapter provides an overview of the impacts of the proposed Project based on the analyses presented in
Chapters 4.0 through 5.3 of this Draft EIR. The topics covered in this chapter include impacts found not to
be significant, significant unavoidable impacts, growth-inducing impacts, and significant irreversible changes
to the environment. A more detailed analysis of the effects that the proposed Project would have on the
environment, and proposed mitigation measures to minimize significant impacts, are provided in Chapters
4.0 through 4.14.
6.1 IMPACTS FOUND NOT TO BE SIGNIFICANT
As required by CEQA Guidelines Section 15128, the following possible significant effects have been
determined not to be significant and are therefore not discussed further in this EIR. For the reasons stated
below, it was determined during the scoping process for this EIR that the proposed Project would not have a
significant effect on Agriculture and Forestry Resources or on Mineral Resources,
6.1.1 AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES
The proposed Project is located within the City of Cupertino, which is an urbanized city. Maps prepared
pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency categorize
land within Cupertino as Urban and Built-Up Land.1 There are no agricultural lands classified as Prime
Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland) within the city of
Cupertino. In addition, the California Land Conservation (Williamson) Act 2010 Status Report identifies
land in Santa Clara County that is currently under Williamson Act contract.2 Potential future development
permitted as a result of the proposed Project would not occur within lands zoned for agricultural use in
Cupertino. Therefore, there would not be a not conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a
Williamson Act contract.
According to 2006 mapping data from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the City
does not contain any woodland or forestland cover;3 hence, the City does not contain land zoned for
Timberland Production nor does the Cupertino Zoning Map identify any areas zoned for Timberland
Production.4 Consequently, there would be no impacts with regard to agriculture and forestry resources.
1 California Resources Agency, Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program. Santa Clara County Important Farmland 2010, accessed
on March 20, 2014.
2 California Department of Conservation, 2010, California Land Conservation (Williamson) Act 2010 Status Report, page 23,
http://www.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/lca/stats_reports/Documents/2010%20Williamson-%20Act%20Status
%20Report.pdf, accessed on March 20, 2014.
3 California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Fire and Resource Assessment Program, Land Cover Map, accessed on March
20, 2014.
4 City of Cupertino, 2005 General Plan, Zoning Map, http://www.cupertino.org/index.aspx?page=291, accessed on March 20.
2014.
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6.1.2 MINERAL RESOURCES5
Although Cupertino does have mineral resource zones (MRZ) classified as MRZ-2, which are areas where
adequate information indicates that significant mineral deposits are present, and MRZ-3, which are areas
containing mineral deposits for which the significance cannot be evaluated from available data, the city is
largely urbanized and therefore, with the exception of the four areas mentioned below, there are no areas in
the city identified for protection or conservation with regard to mineral resources given those areas are
already developed and/or not considered suitable for conservation.6
There are four mineral resource areas within the general area of Cupertino, including two located within
the unincorporated lands of the Santa Clara County but are within Cupertino’s boundary agreement areas
and two are located within the city boundary. The Hansen Permanente and Stevens Creek sites have been
designated by the State as having mineral deposits of regional or state significance. However, these two sites
are under the jurisdiction of the Santa Clara County and the Project does not propose new development on
these sites.
The two sites located within the city that are classified as mineral resource areas for which the State requires
policies supporting preservation and extraction are not within the boundaries of the proposed Project
Component locations; therefore, the Project would have no impact on these areas. Regardless, most of the
areas have been developed with residential and other urbanized uses and one area is considered depleted.7
Consequently, because the mineral resource areas within the City of Cupertino have been developed and not
considered suitable for conservation, there would be no impacts to mineral resources.
6.2 SIGNIFICANT UNAVOIDABLE EFFECTS
Chapter 2, Executive Summary, of this Draft EIR contains Table 2-1, which summarizes the impacts,
mitigation measures, and levels of significance with and without mitigation.
In compliance with CEQA, “each public agency shall mitigate or avoid the significant effects on the
environment of the project it carries out or approves whenever it is feasible to do so.”8 The term “feasible” is
defined in CEQA to mean, “capable of being accomplished in a successful manner within a reasonable period
of time, taking into account economic, environmental, social, and technological factors.”9 CEQA Guidelines
Section 15370 defines “mitigation” as including: (1) avoiding the impact altogether by not taking a certain
action or parts of an action; (2) minimizing impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of an action and its
implementation; (3) rectifying the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the impacted
environment; (4) reducing or eliminating the impact over time by preservation and maintenance operations
during the life of the action; and (5) compensating for the impact by replacing or providing substitute
resources or environments.
5 City of Cupertino, 2005 General Plan EIR, Section 15, Mineral Resources, Page VI-37.
6 City of Cupertino, 2005 General Plan, Section 5, Environmental Resources/Sustainability, pages 5-13 to 5-15.
7 City of Cupertino, 2005 General Plan, Section 5, Environmental Resources/Sustainability, page 5-13.
8 Public Resources Code, Section 21002.1(b).
9 Public Resources Code, Section 21061.1.
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For the following impacts, while some mitigation measures would reduce impacts, they would not reduce
the impact to a less-than-significant level; therefore, these impacts are considered significant and
unavoidable, in some cases even with the adoption and implementation of feasible mitigation measures. The
following is a brief discussion of the mitigation measures, which are discussed in full in Chapter 4, that
would partially reduce impacts and of those that were considered to reduce the impacts of the proposed
Project to less than significant, but were considered infeasible and the infeasibility of those measures.
6.2.1 AIR QUALITY
As discussed in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, of this Draft EIR, the following impacts would be significant and
unavoidable.
AQ-1 Implementation of the proposed Project would conflict with or obstruct
implementation of the applicable air quality plan.
While the proposed Project would support the primary goals of the 2010 Bay Area Clean Air Plan, the
buildout of the proposed Project would conflict with the BAAQMD Bay Area Clean Air Plan goal for
community-wide vehicles miles traveled (VMT) to increase at a slower rate compared to population and
employment growth. The rate of growth in VMT would exceed the rate of population and employment
growth, resulting in a substantial increase in regional cr iteria air pollutant emissions in Cupertino. The Plan
Bay Area aims to improve transportation efficiency and reduce regional infrastructure costs in the region.
Policies and development standards in the proposed Project would facilitate continued City
participation/cooperation with BAAQMD and VTA to achieve regional air quality improvement goals,
promote energy conservation design and development techniques, encourage alternative transportation
modes, and implement transportation demand management strategies. However, due to the level of growth
forecast in the city and the programmatic nature of the proposed Project, no additional mitigating policies
or development standards are available and impacts are considered significant and unavoidable.
AQ-2 Implementation of the proposed Project would violate an air quality
standard or contribute substantially to an existing projected air quality
violation in Cupertino.
Future projects under the proposed Project would generate air pollutant emissions during operation and
construction phases that could exceed BAAQMD’s significance criteria.
Operational Emissions: Future development under the proposed Project would result in a
substantial long-term increase in criteria air pollutants over the 26-year General Plan horizon. Criteria
air pollutant emissions would be generated from on-site area sources (e.g. landscaping fuel, consumer
products), vehicle trips generated by the project, and energy use (e.g. natural gas used for cooking and
heating). While the General Plan includes policies and strategies described in Chapter 4.2, Air Quality,
that once adopted would reduce operational emissions from development under the proposed Project
to the maximum extent practicable, there are no additional measures available to mitigate this impact
due to the level of growth forecast in the city.
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In addition, Mitigation Measure AQ-4a, for new sources of Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs), would also
reduce criteria air pollutants associated with light industrial land uses within the city. Operational
emissions from future development would be determined during project-level CEQA review. The total
criteria air pollutant emissions from operation of future development projects under the proposed
Project would be substantial and would contribute to increases in concentrations of air pollutants,
which could contribute to ongoing violations of air quality standards. It should be noted that the
identification of this program-level impact does not preclude the finding of less-than-significant impacts
for subsequent projects that comply with BAAQMD screening criteria or meet applicable thresholds of
significance. However, due to the programmatic nature of the proposed Project, no additional mitigating
policies are available, and the impact is considered significant and unavoidable.
Construction Emissions: Future construction emissions associated with individual development
projects under the proposed Project would generate an increase in criteria air pollutants and TACs.
Existing federal, State, and local regulations, and policies and strategies of the proposed Project
described throughout Chapter 4.2, Air Quality, protect local and regional air quality. Continued
compliance with these regulations and implementation of General Plan policies and strategies, would
reduce construction-related impacts to the extent feasible. However, if uncontrolled, fugitive dust
(PM10 and PM2.5) levels downwind of actively disturbed areas during construction or overlapping
construction activities could violate air quality standards or contribute substantially to an existing or
projected air quality violation and expose sensitive receptors to elevated concentrations of pollutants
during construction activities.
While Mitigation Measure AQ-2a would require adherence to the current Bay Area Air Quality Management
District’s basic control measures for reducing construction emissions of PM10 and Mitigation Measure AQ-2b
would require adherence to BAAQMD’s basic control measures for fugitive dust control and would ensure
impacts from fugitive dust generated during construction activities are less than significant, applicants for
future development in Cupertino could generate construction exhaust emissions in excess of the BAAQMD
significance thresholds. An analysis of emissions generated from the construction of specific future projects
under the General Plan would be required to evaluate emissions compared to BAAQMD’s project-level
significance thresholds during individual environmental review. It should be noted that the identification of
this program-level impact does not preclude the finding of less-than-significant impacts for subsequent
projects that comply with BAAQMD screening criter ia or meet applicable thresholds of significance.
However, due to the programmatic nature of the proposed Project, no additional mitigation measures are
available and the impact is considered significant and unavoidable.
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AQ-3 Implementation of the proposed Project would result in a cumulatively
considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the Project
region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air
quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors).
The proposed Project’s contribution to cumulative air quality impacts are identified under Impact AQ-1 and
AQ-2 summarized above. Consequently, Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2 identified a significant regional air quality
impact. Mitigation measures proposed under Impact AQ-1 and AQ-2 to reduce Project-related emissions
would reduce impacts to the extent feasible. Due to the programmatic nature of the proposed Project, no
additional mitigating policies or development standards are available. Air pollutant emissions associated with
the proposed Project would result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to air quality impacts, and the
Project’s impacts would be significant and unavoidable.
AQ-6 Implementation of the proposed Project would cumulatively contribute to
air quality impacts in the San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin.
As described under AQ-3, regional air quality impacts were identified as significant; therefore, in
combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, the proposed Project even with
implementation of applicable regulations, as well as, the mitigation measures and General Plan policies
outlined above, would result in a significant cumulative impact with respect to air quality. Therefore, the
impact would be significant and unavoidable.
6.2.2 NOISE
As discussed in Chapter 4.10, Noise, of this Draft EIR, the following impacts would be significant and
unavoidable.
NOISE-3 Implementation of the proposed Project would result in a substantial
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the Project vicinity above
levels existing without the Project.
As a result of implementation of the proposed Project and ongoing regional growth, it is anticipated that
there would be substantial permanent increases to the ambient noise levels throughout Cupertino, and that
these increases would primarily result from increases to transportation-related noise, especially that of
automobile traffic. The impact analysis in Chapter 4.10, Noise found that there would be multiple major
road segments that would experience substantial permanent increases in ambient noise levels, including at
sensitive land uses. While the General Plan contains numerous policies to address excessive roadway noise at
existing sensitive land uses that could in certain cases reduce or prevent significant increases in ambient
noise at sensitive land uses under implementation of the proposed Project, the measures described in these
policies would not be universally feasible, and some of the most effective noise-attenuation measures,
including sound walls and berms, would be infeasible or inappropriate in a majority of locations where
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sensitive land uses already exist. Factors which would render these mitigations infeasible include but are not
limited to cost, aesthetic considerations, and negative impacts to pedestrian and bicycle connectivity.
Therefore, even after the application of relevant, feasible regulations and General Plan policies, the impact
to ambient noise levels would remain significant. For this noise impact, there is no feasible mitigation for
preventing substantial increases in ambient noise levels, since all conceivable mitigations would be
economically impractical, scientifically unachievable, outside the City’s jurisdiction, and/or inconsistent
with City planning goals and objectives. Impacts would remain significant and unavoidable because no
feasible mitigation measures are available to mitigate noise impacts to a less than significant level, resulting
in a significant and unavoidable impact.
NOISE-5 Implementation of the proposed Project, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in significant cumulative
impacts with respect to noise.
The analysis of the proposed Project, addresses cumulative impacts with regard to noise, as well as
groundborne noise and vibration. As previously discussed under Impact NOISE-3, impacts related to
substantial permanent increases to the ambient noise levels throughout Cupertino would be significant
and unavoidable.
6.2.3 TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC
As discussed in Chapter 4.13, Transportation and Traffic, of this Draft EIR, the following impacts would be
significant and unavoidable.
TRAF-1 Implementation of the proposed Project would result in increases to level
of service (LOS) to exceed acceptable standards at the intersections
discussed below; therefore, would conflict with an applicable plan,
ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the
performance of the circulation system, taking into account all modes of
transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel and
relevant components of the circulation system, including but not limited to
intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths.
The proposed Project would result in significant and unavoidable impacts to the following intersections
during at least one of the peak hours.
SR 85 Northbound Ramps and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#2): LOS E – AM Peak Hour
Stelling Road and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#3): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5): LOS F – AM and PM Peak
Hours
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6): LOS F – AM and PM Peak Hours
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Southbound Ramp (#7): LOS F – AM and PM Peak Hours
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
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De Anza Boulevard and McClellan Road/Pacifica Drive (#9): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
Wolfe Road and Homestead Road (#16): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18): LOS F – AM Peak Hour
Wolfe Road and I-280 Southbound Ramp (#19): LOS F – AM and PM Peak Hours
Stevens Creek Boulevard and Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue (#21): LOS E+ AM Peak Hour
North Tantau Avenue/Quail Avenue and Homestead Road (#24): LOS E – AM Peak Hour and E+ –
PM Peak Hour
Stevens Creek Boulevard and Tantau Avenue (#27): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
Stevens Creek Boulevard and I-280 SB Ramps/Calvert Drive (#29): LOS F – PM Peak Hour
Agilent Tech Drive Way and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#30): LOS F - AM Peak Hour
Lawrence Expressway Southbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#31): LOS F – AM Peak Hour
Stevens Creek Boulevard and Lawrence Expressway Northbound Ramp (#32): LOS F – AM Peak Hour
While implementation of Mitigation Measure TRAF-1 would secure a funding mechanism for future
roadway and infrastructure improvements that are necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based
on then current standards, impacts would remain significant and unavoidable, because the City cannot
guarantee improvements at these intersections at this time. This is in part because the nexus study has yet to
be prepared and because some of the impacted intersections are under the jurisdictions of the Cities of
Sunnyvale and Santa Clara and Caltrans.
Freeway Levels of Service
Under the proposed Project, one of the HOV lane segments and the following mixed-lane freeway segments
would have significant and unavoidable impacts:
SR 85 Southbound between I-280 and Stevens Creek Boulevard
I-280 Southbound between Lawrence Expressway and Saratoga Avenue
I-280 Southbound between Saratoga Avenue and Lawrence Expressway
I-280 Southbound between Wolfe Road and De Anza Boulevard
I-280 Southbound between De Anza Boulevard and SR 85 (mixed-flow lanes and HOV lane)
Even with implementation of Mitigation Measures TRAF-1, which includes preparing and implementing a
Traffic Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that are
necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards, impacts would
be significant and unavoidable.
TRAF-2 Implementation of the proposed Project would result in significant and
unavoidable impacts to the following four Congestion Management
Program (CMP) intersections at least one of the peak hours.
The proposed Project would result in significant and unavoidable impacts to the following Santa Clara
County’s Congestion Management Program (CMP) intersections at least one of the peak hours:
SR 85 Northbound Ramps and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#2)
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Stelling Road and Stevens Creek Boulevard(#3)
Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road/De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road (#5)
De Anza Boulevard and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#6)
De Anza Boulevard. and I-280 Southbound Ramp (#7)
De Anza Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#8)
Wolfe Road and I-280 Northbound Ramp (#18)
Wolfe Road and I-280 Southbound Ramp (#19)
Wolfe Road/Miller Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard (#21)
Stevens Creek Boulevard and I-280 Ramps/Calvert Drive (#29)
Lawrence Expressway Southbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard (County) (#31)
Lawrence Expressway Northbound Ramp and Stevens Creek Boulevard (County) (#32)
Even with implementation of Mitigation Measures TRAF-1, which includes preparing and implementing a
Traffic Mitigation Fee Program to guarantee funding for roadway and infrastructure improvements that are
necessary to mitigate impacts from future projects based on the then current City standards, the impacts to
these CMP intersections would be significant and unavoidable.
TRAF-6 Implementation of the proposed Project, in combination with past, present,
and reasonably foreseeable projects, would result in additional
cumulatively considerable impacts.
The analysis of the proposed Project, above, addresses cumulative impacts to the transportation network in
the city and its surroundings; accordingly, cumulative impacts would be the same as proposed Project, which
are significant and unavoidable.
6.3 GROWTH-INDUCING IMPACTS
Section 15126.2(d) of the CEQA Guidelines requires that an EIR discuss the ways in which a proposed
project could foster economic or population growth, or the construction of additional housing, either
directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment. Typical growth inducing factors might be the
extension of urban services or transportation infrastructure to a previously unserved or under-served area,
or the removal of major barriers to development. This section evaluates the proposed Project’s potential to
create such growth inducements. As Section 15126.2(d) requires, “[i[t must not be assumed that growth in
an area is necessarily beneficial, detrimental, or of little significance to the environment.” In other words,
negative impacts associated with growth inducement occur only where the projected growth would cause
significant adverse environmental impacts.
Growth-inducing impacts fall into two general categories: direct or indirect. Direct growth-inducing
impacts are generally associated with providing urban services to an undeveloped area. Indirect, or
secondary growth-inducing impacts consist of growth induced in the region by additional demands for
housing, goods, and services associated with the population increase caused by, or attracted to, a new project.
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Further, while implementation of the proposed Project would induce growth, as discussed in detail in
Chapter 4.11, Population and Housing, of this Draft EIR, this growth would be consistent with the regional
planning objectives established for the Bay Area. Further, this additional growth would come incrementally
over a period of approximately 26 years and a policy framework is in place to ensure adequate planning
occurs to accommodate it. The proposed Project has mixed-used development near transportation facilities
and employment centers, and implements energy and water conservation requirements related to existing
and new development, thereby, minimizing commitment and consumption of non-renewable resources, to
the extent practicable.
6.3.1 DIRECT IMPACTS
The proposed Project would directly induce population, employment and economic growth by replenishing
the commercial, residential, hotel, and office space allocation within some areas of the city. The proposed
Project would result in the following growth patter ns based on the expected growth assumptions for the
city boundary:
Implementation of the proposed Project to the year 2040 would result in increased office space
development allocation of approximately 4,040,231 square feet. This would result in a total anticipated
office space of approximately 12,970,005 square feet by 2040.10
Implementation of the proposed Project to the year 2040 would result in increased commercial space
development allocation of approximately 1,343,679 square feet. This would result in a total anticipated
commercial space of approximately 5,073,248 square feet by 2040.11
Implementation of the proposed Project to the year 2040 would result in increased hotel room
development allocation of approximately 1,339 rooms. This would result in a total anticipated hotel
room inventory of approximately 2,429 rooms by 2040.12
Implementation of the proposed Project to the year 2040 would result in increased residential unit
development allocation of approximately 4,421 units. This would result in a total anticipated residential
unit inventory of approximately 25,820 residential units by 2040.13
State law requires the City to promote the production of housing to meet its fair share of the regional
housing needs distribution made by ABAG. The housing and commercial/industrial growth in Cupertino
would allow the City to address its regional fair-share housing obligations.
In addition, the type of growth envisioned by the proposed Project would be concentrated in specific,
designated are therefore Major Mixed-Use Special Areas, designated Study Areas, Gateways, Nodes, and
designated Housing Element Sites. The growth envisioned under the proposed Project would result in
regional benefits by promoting growth that encourages less automobile dependence and supports regional
transit systems, which could have associated air quality and noise effects. Encouraging infill growth in
designated areas would help to reduce development pressures on lands outside the city boundary.
10 Existing built/approved office space is 8,929,774 square feet.
11 Existing built/approved commercial space is 3,729,569 square feet.
12 Existing built/approved hotel rooms are 1,090 rooms.
13 Existing built/approved residential units are 21,339 units.
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6.3.2 INDIRECT IMPACTS
The proposed Project is considered growth inducing because it encourages new growth in the urbanized
areas of Cupertino. Development in these areas would consist of infill development on underutilized sites,
sites that have been previously developed, and that are vacant and have been determined to be suitable for
development. However, infrastructure is largely in place and commercial or office growth would be
required to comply with the City’s General Plan, Zoning regulations and standards for public services and
utilities; secondary effects associated with this growth do not represent a new significant environmental
impact which has not already been addressed in the individual resource chapters of this EIR.
6.4 SIGNIFICANT IRREVERSIBLE CHANGES
Section 15126.2(c) of the CEQA Guidelines requires an EIR to discuss the extent to which a proposed
Project would commit nonrenewable resources to uses that future generation would probably be unable to
reverse. The three CEQA-required categories of irreversible changes are discussed below.
6.4.1 LAND USE CHANGES THAT COMMIT FUTURE GENERATIONS
As described in detail in Chapter 3, Project Description, of this Draft EIR, the proposed Project generally
maintains the land use pattern of the existing General Plan. The current General Plan provided development
allocations for buildout of the city through the year 2020; however, the Apple Campus 2 project, which was
not envisioned in the General Plan, used up much of the commercial and office space development
allocation resulting in the need to replenish development allocation in order to accommodate future
growth. The proposed Project includes increased density and heights at some locations, but future
development under the proposed Project would be located on land that is generally urbanized or on infill
sites and sites in developed areas that are underutilized. Once future development under the proposed
Project occurs, it would not be feasible to return the developed land to its existing (pre-project) condition.
Therefore, at least some of the development allowed under the proposed Project would most likely lead to
irreversible changes in land use.
6.4.2 IRREVERSIBLE DAMAGE FROM ENVIRONMENTAL ACCIDENTS
Irreversible changes to the physical environment could occur from accidental release of hazardous materials
associated with development activities; however, compliance with the applicable regulations and
implementation of the policies in the current General Plan, as discussed in Chapter 4.7, Hazards and
Hazardous Materials, would reduce this potential impact to a less-than-significant level. Therefore,
irreversible damage is not expected to result from the adoption and implementation of the proposed Project.
6.4.3 LARGE COMMITMENT OF NON-RENEWABLE RESOURCES
Implementation of development allowed under the proposed Project would result in the commitment of
limited, renewable resources such as lumber and water. In addition, development allowed by the proposed
Project would irretrievably commit nonrenewable resources for the construction of buildings, infrastructure,
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and roadway improvements. These nonrenewable resources include mined minerals such as sand, gravel,
steel, lead, copper, and other metals. Future buildout under implementation of the proposed Project also
represents a long-term commitment to the consumption of fossil fuels, natural gas, and gasoline. Increased
energy demands would be used for construction, lighting, heating, and cooling of residences, and
transportation of people within, to, and from Cupertino. However, as shown in Section 4.14.1, Water;
Section 4.14.3, Solid Waste; and Section 4.14.4, Energy Conservation, of Chapter 4.14, Utilities and
Service Systems, of this Draft EIR, several regulatory measures and General Plan policies and strategies
encourage energy and water conservation, alternative energy use, waste reduction, alternatives to
automotive transportation, and green building.
Future development as a result of increased development allocation, under the Project would be required to
comply with all applicable building and design requirements, including those set forth in Title 24 relating to
energy conservation. In compliance with CALGreen, the State’s Green Building Standards Code, future
development would be required to reduce water consumption by 20 percent, divert 50 percent of
construction waste from land-fills, and install low pollutant-emitting materials.
Therefore, while the construction and operation of future development, as a result of increased
development allocations under the proposed Project, would involve the use of nonrenewable resources,
compliance with applicable standards and regulations and implementation of General Plan policies would
reduce the use of nonrenewable resources to the maximum extent practicable, and Therefore, the proposed
Project would not represent a large commitment of nonrenewable resources in comparison to a business as
usual situation.
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7. Organizations and Persons Consulted
This Draft EIR was prepared by the following consultants and individuals:
Lead Agency
City of Cupertino
Aarti Shrivastava
Assistant City Manager
Community Development and Strategic Planning
Piu Ghosh
Senior Planner
Rebecca Tolentino
Senior Planner
George Schroeder
Associate Planner
Timm Borden
Director of Public Works
Carol Atwood
Director of Recreation and Community Services
Chad Mosley
Senior Civil Engineer
David Stillman
Senior Civil Engineer
Winnie Pagan
Associate Civil Engineer
Agencies and Consultants
Pacific Gas & Electric
John Joseph
Senior Program Manager, Green Communities and Innovator Pilots
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Yarne & Associates, Inc. Water Management Consulting Services
Jeffery L. Yarne
Principal
Schoolhouse Services
Dick Recht
Principal
Santa Clara County Library District
Derek E. Wolfgram
Deputy County Librarian for Community Libraries
Gayathri Kanth
Cupertino Community Librarian
Santa Clara County Sheriff
Ken Binder
Captain, West Valley Patrol Division
Santa Clara County Fire Department
Joe Parker
Deputy Chief of Operations Division
Cheryl Roth
Operations/Support Services Divisions
Report Preparers and Qualifications
PlaceWorks
Steve Noack, AICP
Principal, Principal-in-Charge
BS, Urban and Regional Government, Willamette University, Salem, OR
Terri McCracken
Senior Associate, Project Manager
BA, Environmental Studies and Planning, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park
BS, Environmental Education, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
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William Hass
BS, Civil and Environmental Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD
Master of Public Administration, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Cathy Fitzgerald, DEnv, PE, qsd/qsp
Senior Engineer
BA, Biology, University of California, Los Angeles
MA, Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara
Doctor of Environmental Science & Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Vermillion
Associate Principal
BA with Honors, Environmental Studies, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
BS with Honors, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
Master of Urban & Regional Planning, University of California, Irvine, CA
Bob Mantey
Manager, Noise, Vibration & Acoustics
BS, Engineering, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, CA
Stuart Michener
Senior Geologist
BA, Environmental Studies, Colby College, Waterville, ME
Graduate work in Hydrogeology, Waste Management Program, Colorado School of Mines
MS, Geology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA
Steve Bush
Assistant Scientist
BS, Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA
MS, Chemical Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA
Kelly Cha
Project Planner
BA, Architecture, University of California, Berkeley, CA
Eric Panzer
Project Planner
BS, Environmental Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA
Ricky Caperton
Project Planner
BA, Environmental Studies and Planning, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA
MA, Environmental Law and Policy, Vermont Law School, South Royalton, VT
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE, AND ASSOCIATED REZONING DRAFT EIR
CITY OF CUPERTINO
ORGANIZATIONS & PERSONS CONSULTED
7-4 JUNE 18, 2014
Alex Lopez
Planner
BS, Environmental Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
Grant Reddy
Graphic Design Specialist
Bachelor of Environmental Design, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO
Cubic Program Graduate, Leeds School of Business, Boulder, CO
Other Consultants
BKF Engineers
Fletcher Parsons
Project Engineer
Cole Gaumnitz
Project Engineer
Environmental Collaborative
Jim Martin
Principal
Hexagon Transportation Consultants
Gary Black
President, Principal-in-Charge
Jill Hough
Vice President and Principal Associate
Tom Origer & Associates
Tom Origer
Principal Investigator, Principal-in-Charge
Janine Loyd
Senior Associate, Project Manager